The Nigerian Senate is expected to take a significant step toward overhauling Nigeria’s security framework today as lawmakers debate the long-awaited State Police Bill, with Senate President Godswill Akpabio urging members to be fully present for the landmark session.
The bill, transmitted to the National Assembly by President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday, seeks to amend relevant sections of the 1999 Constitution to allow for the establishment of state police forces alongside the existing Nigeria Police Force.
The proposed reform has gained increasing support from security experts, state governors and community leaders who argue that decentralising policing is essential to tackling the country’s growing security challenges, including terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and violent crimes.
Expectations were high when the Senate reconvened from recess that lawmakers would begin accelerated consideration of the constitutional amendment. However, proceedings on Tuesday were cut short following the announcement of the death of a member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Yaya Tongo, who represented the Kwami/Funakaye Federal Constituency of Gombe State.
The late lawmaker’s passing cast a sombre mood over the National Assembly, prompting senators to suspend legislative business and observe a minute’s silence in his honour.
Announcing the decision, Akpabio told lawmakers that the Senate would not proceed with any legislative discussions in keeping with parliamentary tradition.
“With heavy hearts, I announce the passing of our Honourable Member of the House of Representatives, Mallam Yaya Tongo, representing the Gombe/Kwami/Funakaye Federal Constituency of Gombe State, who died during this brief recess,” Akpabio said.
He extended condolences to the deceased lawmaker’s family, colleagues and constituents, praying for the peaceful repose of his soul before directing senators to observe a minute’s silence.
Following the tribute, plenary was adjourned until Wednesday, clearing the way for lawmakers to resume deliberations on the constitutional amendment bill.
Before the adjournment, Akpabio described the State Police Bill as a transformative piece of legislation that could redefine Nigeria’s security architecture by strengthening grassroots policing and improving the country’s response to emerging security threats.
