The Senate has defended the passage of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (Alteration) (State Police) Bill, 2026, insisting that national security should take priority over political considerations.
The upper chamber recently passed the constitutional amendment bill aimed at establishing state police across Nigeria, describing the move as a response to growing security challenges facing communities nationwide.
Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele said the bill was not driven by political interests but was the result of extensive consultations with key stakeholders, including the executive arm of government, the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, state legislatures and the Nigeria Police Force.
According to the Senate, the proposed state police structure underwent nationwide consultations and received broad support from stakeholders who believe it could improve security response at local and state levels.
The bill has, however, attracted criticism from some political figures, including Peter Obi, who called for its implementation to be delayed until after the 2027 general election, citing concerns over possible political interference.
Reacting to the criticisms, the Senate argued that security issues should not be reduced to partisan debates, stressing that effective security benefits all Nigerians regardless of political affiliation, ethnicity or religion.
The Senate maintained that safeguards and oversight mechanisms would be introduced to prevent abuse and ensure that state police operates within the principles of accountability and good governance.
