National Assembly
The Forum of Progressive Speakers of State Legislatures under the All Progressives Congress (APC) has applauded the Nigerian Senate for passing the State Police Bill, describing the development as a significant step toward improving security and strengthening grassroots policing across the country.
In a statement signed by the forum’s chairman and Speaker of the Jigawa State House of Assembly, Haruna Aliyu Dangyatin, the group praised the legislation as a landmark reform that could reshape Nigeria’s security architecture.
According to Dangyatin, the bill represents a long-awaited response to persistent calls for a policing system that is better equipped to understand local communities and respond more effectively to security challenges.
“The passage of this bill is a resounding victory for effective governance and community-focused policing,” Dangyatin said.
He added that, “For years, the clamour for a security structure that understands the local terrain has been loud. With this enactment, we are empowering states to better protect their people, respond swiftly to security threats, and foster closer collaboration between citizens and law enforcement.”
The forum noted that state police would enhance grassroots intelligence gathering and enable faster responses to crime and other security threats unique to individual states.
To demonstrate its commitment, the APC Speakers Forum pledged to support the successful implementation of the legislation once it becomes law. It assured Nigerians that APC-controlled State Houses of Assembly would work swiftly to ratify the necessary legal frameworks required for state policing.
The forum also promised to establish strong oversight mechanisms to ensure that state police commands operate professionally, respect human rights, and uphold the rule of law.
In addition, the speakers said they would collaborate with state governments to ensure adequate funding for the recruitment, training, welfare, and equipment of state police personnel, describing these areas as essential for the success of the new security structure.
The forum further expressed appreciation to the leadership of the National Assembly, the executive arm of government, and other stakeholders whose efforts contributed to the passage of the bill.
Political observers believe the Senate’s approval of the State Police Bill marks a significant turning point in Nigeria’s approach to internal security. While discussions continue over issues such as funding, coordination, and oversight, many stakeholders see the legislation as a bold move toward tackling the country’s evolving security challenges and promoting safer communities nationwide.
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