State police: National Assembly to embed accountability, curb political abuse, says Bamidele
Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele has said the National Assembly is working on a decentralised policing framework to strengthen accountability and prevent its misuse by the political class. Bamidele, who also
- From Sanni Onogu, Abuja
Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele has said the National Assembly is working on a decentralised policing framework to strengthen accountability and prevent its misuse by the political class.
Bamidele, who also serves as the Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution, said the proposed model would devolve policing powers to sub-national authorities while instituting strict safeguards to ensure transparency, justice and respect for fundamental human rights.
In a statement yesterday in Abuja to mark the 74th birthday of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Senate Leader applauded the Tinubu administration’s efforts to stabilise the country and tackle insecurity.
He restated the commitment of the National Assembly to crafting a decentralised police structure “that will serve the interests of all, regardless of status”.
Bamidele stressed that the initiative was being treated with priority amid growing calls for reforms to address Nigeria’s security challenges.
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Stakeholders across the country have long called for state policing to reflect Nigeria’s federal character and improve response to local security threats.
In line with this, the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has already submitted a comprehensive 75-page framework to Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin for legislative consideration.
Bamidele said the proposed framework would incorporate strong accountability mechanisms to check abuse, reinforce the administration of justice, discourage impunity and protect citizens’ rights.
“The essence of this model is to devolve policing powers to sub-national authorities with a view to ensuring effective governance even in the remotest parts of the country,” he said.
“It will also set clear guardrails to prevent misuse by political actors.”
The Senate Leader added that the initiative reflected a shared commitment between the Presidency and the National Assembly to adopt global best practices in securing the nation.
He also applauded President Tinubu’s leadership, describing him as “a man of history, purpose and vision” whose reforms, though initially challenging, are beginning to yield positive results.
He noted that the President has consistently supported the push for decentralised policing as part of broader efforts to safeguard lives, property and critical infrastructure nationwide.
Reflecting on President Tinubu’s record, Bamidele highlighted key economic reforms, including improvements in foreign reserves and fiscal restructuring.
The Senate Leader said the President’s programmes have strengthened Nigeria’s financial position and enhanced governance at sub-national levels.
“At 74, the President has demonstrated unwavering commitment to the unity, stability and prosperity of Nigeria,” Bamidele said, adding that the President’s leadership continues to steer the country toward long-term growth and national cohesion.
