Imo State Assembly Approves Bill for State Police Service

The Imo State House of Assembly has agreed to support a bill that aims to change Nigeria’s Constitution to allow for state police services. This decision comes as part of efforts to improve security in the country, which has faced many challenges under the current centralized policing system.

During a recent meeting, Hon. Chief Kanayo Onyemaechi, the Leader of the House, emphasized the need to strengthen Nigeria’s security. He stated that local police forces could respond better to security threats and help protect citizens and their property.

The National Assembly had sent the bill to the Imo State Assembly for approval. Onyemaechi explained that if state police are established, they would work alongside the Nigeria Police Force to improve security at both the state and community levels.

He noted that the National Assembly’s request for state assemblies to approve the bill is part of the constitutional process, which requires a two-thirds majority. Onyemaechi urged his fellow lawmakers to support this important change, arguing that local policing could more effectively tackle issues like banditry and kidnapping.

The motion received support from other lawmakers, including Hon. Chigozie Nwaneri and Hon. Clinthon Amadi, along with 21 others. They agreed that local communities are best positioned to address their security challenges and that state police could also create job opportunities.

After the discussion, the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Chike Olemgbe, instructed the Clerk of the House to inform the National Assembly of their decision to support the establishment of state police services.