President Tinubu Submits Bill to Amend Constitution for State Police Establishment

President Bola Tinubu has formally transmitted a bill to the House of Representatives seeking to amend the 1999 Constitution to allow for the creation of state police. This legislative move represents the most significant proposed restructuring of Nigeria’s internal security architecture since the country’s transition to democratic rule in 1999.

In a letter dated June 15, 2026, and read during Tuesday’s plenary session by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, the President urged lawmakers to grant expedited consideration to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (Alteration) (State Police) Bill, 2026. Tinubu characterized the executive bill as a foundational pillar of his administration’s national security strategy, designed to create a clear constitutional pathway for decentralized policing.

According to the executive communication, the proposed amendment builds upon previous legislative work by the House of Representatives while introducing crucial new safeguards. These measures aim to ensure the seamless operation of a dual policing system, split between federal and state jurisdictions, to combat the country’s evolving security threats.

Currently, Nigeria operates a highly centralized police system under the command of the single Nigeria Police Force. However, the rising wave of security challenges including banditry, kidnapping, terrorism, and communal clashes has left federal policing structures severely overstretched. In response, several state governments have already established local and regional security initiatives, such as Amotekun in the South-West, Ebube Agu in the South-East, and various state-backed vigilante groups.

Proponents argue that decentralizing police authority will enhance local intelligence gathering, accelerate response times, and foster stronger community-based policing. However, critics have consistently raised concerns regarding the potential for state governors to misuse local police forces for political intimidation, alongside persistent questions surrounding funding, oversight, and operational standards.

To successfully amend the constitution and pave the way for state-controlled police departments, the bill must navigate a rigorous legislative pathway. First, it must secure a two-thirds majority vote in both the Senate and the House of Representatives. Following national passage, the amendment must be formally approved by at least 24 of the 36 State Houses of Assembly across the country. The bill is expected to trigger intense debates among lawmakers and regional leaders as the legislative process begins.