By Sunday Ani
Members of the Lagos State House of Assembly have thrown their weight behind the proposed establishment of state police after considering the constitutional amendment bill transmitted by the National Assembly.
The lawmakers who gave their approval during plenary on Tuesday said the proposed constitutional amendment, titled ‘The Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (Sixth Alteration) Act, 2026,’ seeks to provide for the establishment of the State Police Service and related matters.
Speaking on the proposed amendment, the Speaker of the House, Mudashiru Obasa, said the establishment of state police had remained a recurring issue from the 5th to the 10th Assembly, with successive legislatures discussing ways to strengthen security and protect lives and property.
He described the development as a step forward, pointing out that concerns raised by state legislatures, particularly those relating to control and the relationship between federal and state policing, should be adequately addressed.
He said he was pleased that the issue of state police had received attention, expressing hope that further developments would give states greater control over their policing arrangements.
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He also commended President Bola Tinubu for his commitment to democracy and democratic institutions, as well as the National Assembly, particularly the Senate and the House of Representatives, for their contributions to the amendment process.
He also commended the State Houses of Assembly for supporting the proposal, noting that nearly 25 states had expressed support for the constitutional alteration.
He also called for a clear constitutional provision for parliamentary police to protect legislative institutions and preserve their independence, citing past incidents in which state legislative buildings were allegedly demolished or locked up at the instance of state governors.
He said establishing parliamentary police would help prevent such incidents, strengthen state legislatures and safeguard democracy. He expressed confidence that outstanding issues would be addressed as the process continued.
He equally commended serving and former members of the State House of Assembly for their commitment, dedication and contributions to legislative development and the strengthening of democratic governance.
Following the resolution of the House in support of the proposed amendment, the Speaker directed the Clerk of the House, Mrs Adenike Oshinowo, to formally communicate the Assembly’s position to the National Assembly.