Obasa backs state police bill, demands parliamentary policing

Abimbola Joseph

The Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa, on Tuesday, asked for the inclusion of parliamentary policing in Nigeria’s proposed constitutional amendment on state police, saying it would protect lawmakers and strengthen democratic institutions.

Obasa said this during plenary while expressing the Assembly’s support for the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (Sixth Alteration) Bill, 2026.

The bill, transmitted to state assemblies through the Clerk of the National Assembly, is before them for consideration and approval in accordance with Section 9(2) of the 1999 Constitution, as amended.

Obasa commended President Bola Tinubu, the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Representatives for their roles in advancing the proposed amendment, describing the move to establish state police as a step in the right direction.

He noted that successive administrations had raised concerns about Nigeria’s security challenges, particularly the need for state police to strengthen security across the federation.

However, the Speaker expressed concern that the proposed amendment did not adequately address fundamental questions about the control and administration of the police, with substantial powers still concentrated at the federal level.

“While the proposed amendment represents a step in the right direction, there is still room for improvement to ensure that future administrations can strengthen the provisions and grant states greater authority in managing their security systems,” he said.

Obasa stressed that parliamentary policing was necessary to safeguard lawmakers, protect legislative institutions and enable legislators to discharge their duties effectively across the country.

He said protecting the legislature was essential to strengthening democratic institutions, preserving the independence of the legislative arm of government and sustaining democracy in Nigeria.

The speaker reiterated his appreciation to Tinubu for supporting the long-standing call for state police. He also acknowledged the National Assembly leadership’s contributions to advancing the proposed constitutional amendment.

He urged all tiers of government to prioritise the security and welfare of citizens and residents.

Obasa also commended serving and former members of the Lagos State House of Assembly for their dedication to legislative development and democratic governance.

Following the House’s resolution in support of the proposed amendment, he directed the Clerk, Mrs Adenike Oshinowo, to formally communicate the Assembly’s position to the National Assembly.