A member of the House of Representatives, Okpolupm Etteh, has joined colleagues in supporting the passage of the State Police Bill during plenary on Thursday.
The Bill, which seeks to amend Sections 214–216 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), scaled third reading after 289 lawmakers voted in favour, with one dissenting vote.
Rep. Etteh, who represents Eket/ONNA/Esit-Eket/Ibeno Federal Constituency, was part of the historic vote that followed confirmation of quorum, with 290 members in attendance.
The legislation provides for the establishment of state police as part of efforts to decentralise Nigeria’s security architecture and improve internal security across the country.
Speaking after the plenary, Rep. Etteh described the development as a bold and necessary step towards addressing Nigeria’s security challenges through community-based policing.
According to him, the passage of the Bill reflects the growing consensus among lawmakers on the need for reforms that will make security agencies more responsive to local realities.
The Bill also outlines provisions for coordination, oversight and accountability, as well as a clear delineation of responsibilities between federal and state policing structures.
“The passage of the bill marked a decisive constitutional step towards strengthening national security while preserving the unity of the country. The outcome of Thursday plenary also underscored the commitment of the House of Representatives to reforms that enhance governance and security,” he said.
