The Lagos State House of Assembly has unanimously endorsed the proposed establishment of state police following its consideration of a constitutional amendment bill transmitted by the National Assembly.
The Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa, announced the decision during plenary on Tuesday, describing the proposal as a significant step towards strengthening security and protecting lives and property.
The bill, titled Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (Sixth Alteration) Act, 2026, seeks to establish the State Police Service and provide a legal framework for its operations.
Obasa noted that the establishment of state police had been debated by successive assemblies, from the fifth to the 10th, as part of efforts to address Nigeria’s security challenges.
While welcoming the proposal, he expressed concern that some issues previously raised by state legislatures, particularly the control of state police and their relationship with the federal police, had not been adequately addressed.
He expressed hope that further amendments would give states greater control over their policing arrangements.
The Speaker commended President Bola Tinubu and the National Assembly, particularly the Senate and House of Representatives, for advancing the constitutional amendment process. He also praised state legislatures for supporting the proposal, noting that nearly 25 states had indicated their approval.
Obasa stressed the need for clear constitutional provisions defining the respective responsibilities of federal and state police to prevent an imbalance between the two levels of government.
He also called for the establishment of parliamentary police to protect legislative institutions and preserve their independence.
Citing previous incidents in which state legislative buildings were allegedly demolished or locked at the instance of governors, Obasa argued that dedicated parliamentary police would help prevent such occurrences and strengthen democratic institutions.
He urged continued cooperation between state assemblies and the National Assembly to resolve outstanding concerns as the amendment process progresses.
The House subsequently adjourned plenary until November 9, 2026.