Ekiti State Assembly Approves Bill for Establishing State Police Services

The Ekiti State House of Assembly has approved a bill aimed at creating state police services in Nigeria. This decision was made during a session on Wednesday, where all 21 members present supported the bill. This marks a significant step towards decentralizing policing in the country.

After the bill’s passage, Speaker Adeoye Aribasoye instructed the Clerk of the House to send the document to the National Assembly, along with the Assembly’s comments. Aribasoye emphasized that the establishment of state police has been a key topic in Nigeria for over twenty years, and this was a crucial moment for the Ekiti Assembly to express its views.

He highlighted the need for effective security measures, noting that many Nigerians have raised concerns about slow responses to emergencies and the distance between law enforcement and the communities they serve. According to Aribasoye, better local policing could improve safety, support education, boost business confidence, and restore public trust.

Aribasoye argued that a well-structured state police system could enhance accountability by bringing police leadership closer to the people. He insisted that Nigeria must act quickly to tackle security issues, stating that state police is a necessary solution rather than just an idea.

Additionally, Hon. Babatunde Oke, the Chairman of the House Committee on Media and Public Affairs, shared that the committee reviewed the bill in detail and recommended some amendments. The committee suggested changes to clarify the roles of the National Assembly and State Houses of Assembly in establishing security arrangements.