The Senate has passed a bill seeking to amend the 1999 Constitution to provide for the establishment of state police services across the federation.

With its passage, the legislation replaces the existing Nigeria Police Force framework with a dual structure comprising a Federal Police Service and State Police Services.

The bill was considered after Senate Leader Sen. Opeyemi Bamidele presented its general principles. It subsequently scaled second reading, was considered clause-by-clause and passed third reading.

The passage followed a rigorous clause-by-clause consideration of the bill and came after more than two-thirds of senators voted in support.

A key provision of the bill empowers state governors to appoint Commissioners of Police for their respective states, subject to confirmation by the state Houses of Assembly.

Blaze 91.5 FM