The Senate has passed the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (Alteration) (State Police) Bill, 2026, granting governors the power to appoint State Commissioners of Police. The legislation, which establishes State Police Services across Nigeria, requires that commissioners be recommended by the National Police Council and confirmed by the State House of Assembly before appointment. Removal of a commissioner is also restricted, requiring a fair hearing, recommendation by the National Police Council, and approval by at least two-thirds majority of the State House of Assembly.
Governors may issue policy directives on public safety and public order but cannot interfere in operational policing. The bill explicitly bars any directive that compels the arrest, detention, investigation, or use of force against specific individuals, parties, or groups unless in line with law. It also prohibits the use of state police for partisan, ethnic, religious, or personal purposes and bans suppression of lawful political activities. State Police Services will enforce state laws, maintain public order, and protect life and property within their jurisdictions.
The Federal Police Service retains authority over federal laws, federal institutions, the Federal Capital Territory, and crimes with inter-state, international, or national security dimensions, including terrorism, cybercrime, and arms-trafficking. Federal intervention in state policing is permitted in cases of public order breakdown, administrative or financial collapse of a State Police Service, or systematic human rights violations. Intervention must be temporary, necessary, and proportionate, with written authorisation from the President and notification to the governor, State Assembly Speaker, National Police Council, and National Assembly within 48 hours.
The bill originated as an executive proposal transmitted by the President. Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele described it as one of the most significant constitutional reforms in Nigeria's democratic history.
The same bill that gives governors power to appoint state police commissioners also requires federal-level approval for both appointment and removal, creating a split loyalty that could weaken command authority. While governors may name commissioners, the National Police Council and State Assembly hold veto power, leaving the commissioner caught between state and federal oversight. This dual control may prevent political misuse but could also delay decisive action during local crises. The system assumes both levels of government will act in good faith, a premise not guaranteed by past conduct.
💡 NaijaBuzz Take is AI-assisted editorial opinion, not established fact. Full disclaimer →
