The Nigerian Senate has announced plans to begin urgent deliberations on the establishment of state police as part of ongoing efforts to tackle rising insecurity across the country.
Speaking during a briefing with Senate correspondents, Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele said the issue has become a priority within the ongoing constitutional review process and would be addressed during plenary this week.
He explained that lawmakers are already consulting relevant stakeholders, with the aim of advancing the proposal to state assemblies and ultimately for presidential consideration.
According to him, the Senate is aligned with public calls for state policing and is working to fast-track discussions to strengthen internal security architecture.
Bamidele also dismissed calls for a probe of the military, describing such moves as misplaced given the current security situation in the country.
On concerns about lawmakers’ remuneration, he said the Senate would soon respond to public questions by ensuring greater transparency around salaries and allowances of public office holders.
He further defended the provision of official vehicles to lawmakers, stating that they are intended to support constituency duties and legislative responsibilities.
The Senate Leader noted that while the legislature often faces criticism, its oversight role remains essential to governance and democratic accountability.
