Labour Party Pushes for State Police, Seeks Governors’ Backing

The Labour Party has declared its support for the proposed creation of state police, describing the Senate’s approval of the Constitution Alteration Bill as an important step in addressing Nigeria’s security challenges.

In a statement issued on Thursday by its National Publicity Secretary, Ken Asogwa, the party praised the National Assembly for advancing the legislation. According to the party, Nigerians across different parts of the country have long demanded a policing system that is more responsive to local security concerns and capable of dealing with the growing threats facing communities.

The Labour Party said the move would bring law enforcement closer to the people and improve the ability of security agencies to respond quickly to criminal activities. It noted that the current centralised policing structure has struggled to meet the security demands of a large and diverse country.

While acknowledging concerns that some state governors could misuse state police for political purposes, the party maintained that the proposed constitutional amendment contains safeguards designed to prevent abuse. It stated that the provisions included in the bill provide mechanisms for accountability and oversight, which can help ensure the system operates within the law.

The party argued that every policing structure has its challenges, but insisted that the country must explore new solutions to improve public safety. It added that the security situation across many parts of Nigeria requires fresh approaches that can produce better results.

Labour Party leaders also appealed to governors and members of the various state Houses of Assembly to support the amendment when it reaches them for consideration. The party urged political leaders to place national security above partisan interests and back reforms that could strengthen community policing and crime prevention.

The call comes after the Senate approved the Constitution Alteration Bill seeking the establishment of state police across the federation. The legislation received the support of more than two-thirds of senators during a clause-by-clause consideration at plenary.

Under the proposal, state governments would have the authority to establish and manage police services within their jurisdictions, while the Nigeria Police Force would continue to handle matters relating to national security, terrorism, border protection and other federal offences.

Before the bill can become law, it must secure approval from at least 24 state Houses of Assembly. After that stage, it will be transmitted to President Bola Tinubu for assent. If signed into law, it would mark a major change in Nigeria’s policing system and end decades of debate over whether security responsibilities should be decentralised.