Tinubu Urges Senate to Amend Constitution for State Police Amid Rising Insecurity

Tinubu Urges Senate to Amend Constitution for State Police Amid Rising Insecurity

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on the National Assembly to begin the process of amending the constitution to allow the creation of State Police, describing it as a crucial step to tackle Nigeria’s worsening security crisis.

The appeal was made on Wednesday night during an interfaith breakfast with senators at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, where Tinubu emphasised that the current federal policing system alone cannot effectively combat crime across all regions.

Highlighting the escalating threats of terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and insurgency, the President said a decentralised policing system would empower state governments to respond quickly to local crimes. “We are facing terrorism, banditry, and insurgency … What I will ask for tonight is for you (Senators) to start thinking how best to amend the constitution to incorporate the State Police for us to secure our country, take over our forests from marauders, and free our children from fear,” he said.

Tinubu explained that State Police would complement federal security agencies, improve intelligence gathering at the community level, and enhance rapid response to security threats, while strengthening local governance and citizen protection.

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The President also praised the collaboration between the executive and legislative branches, describing unity as essential for fighting insecurity and boosting public confidence. He commended lawmakers for supporting key economic reforms, including fuel subsidy removal and tax reforms, which he said are necessary to curb corruption and stabilise the economy.

“You don’t have to chase me for dollars; you could see what Nigeria is today. We are enjoying a stable economy, and prosperity is beckoning us,” Tinubu stated, urging continued legislative support for policies promoting long-term economic growth.

Responding to the President, Senate President Godswill Akpabio thanked Tinubu for the interfaith event, calling it a gesture of mutual respect. Akpabio praised the administration’s reforms, noting that they have increased revenue available to state governments and facilitated the development of critical infrastructure. He also prayed for peace, stability, and continued progress in Nigeria.

The call for State Police has been a long-standing debate in Nigerian politics, with supporters citing improved local security and accountability, while critics warn of possible politicisation and the need for strong oversight mechanisms. A constitutional amendment would require legislative deliberation and ratification by a majority of state assemblies, making it a complex but potentially transformative reform.

President Tinubu’s renewed appeal underscores the administration’s commitment to structural security reforms as a key strategy to address Nigeria’s persistent insecurity and protect citizens across the country.

Tinubu Urges Senate to Amend Constitution for State Police Amid Rising Insecurity