The House of Representatives has reversed its earlier decision on a constitutional amendment bill aimed at creating state police, as lawmakers moved to consider a new executive proposal submitted by President Bola Tinubu.
During Tuesday’s plenary session, the House withdrew its previous approval of the earlier bill and proceeded to pass the new executive bill seeking a constitutional framework for the establishment of State Police Services for second reading.
The decision followed a motion presented by the Chairman of the House Committee on Rules and Business, Francis Waive, who relied on the House Standing Orders to request that lawmakers reconsider their earlier resolution.
Waive recalled that the House had previously approved constitutional amendments on June 11, including provisions that would allow for the creation of state police. He also noted that a 12-member Conference Committee had earlier been established to review the proposal.
However, he explained that new developments and concerns surrounding the bill required a fresh review to ensure that the proposed framework aligns with Nigeria’s security structure.
The House unanimously approved the motion through a voice vote led by Speaker Abbas Tajudeen, effectively cancelling the earlier approval and dissolving the Conference Committee on State Police Services.
Following the reversal, lawmakers considered President Tinubu’s revised proposal, which seeks to amend the 1999 Constitution to establish a legal foundation for state police operations.
The bill received support from members of the chamber and passed second reading without opposition.
In his communication to the lawmakers, President Tinubu said the proposal builds on previous legislative efforts while introducing measures to ensure proper coordination between the Nigeria Police Force and state police authorities.
The President said the amendment is part of his administration’s broader strategy to reform Nigeria’s security system and address rising security concerns across the country.
Tinubu urged lawmakers to give the bill urgent consideration, describing it as a major step toward improving public safety and strengthening security nationwide.
