The Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures in Nigeria has welcomed the Senate’s passage of the State Police Bill for second reading, describing it as a significant step in the ongoing constitutional amendment process and the broader quest for improved security and true federalism.
In a statement signed by the Chairman of the Conference and Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Emomotimi Dennis Guwor, the body reaffirmed its support for the proposed legislation, arguing that a properly structured community-based policing system would enhance security and improve response times across the country.
The conference noted that security challenges are often local in nature and require policing structures that understand the terrain, culture and peculiar circumstances of communities.
The Speakers said that with the bill advancing to the next stage of the legislative process, State Houses of Assembly would give it careful and objective consideration in line with Section 9(2) of the 1999 Constitution.
According to the statement, state legislatures will engage relevant stakeholders, conduct public hearings where necessary and deliberate on the proposal in the interest of national unity and the protection of lives and property.
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The conference commended the Senate for what it described as a bold move and urged Nigerians and other stakeholders to continue discussions on the proposed reform with patriotism, factual information and a shared commitment to improving national security.
It also pledged continued collaboration with the National Assembly, the executive arm of government and other stakeholders to ensure the successful delivery of constitutional amendments aimed at strengthening democracy and governance across the federation.
