Jigawa Assembly approves N46.3bn supplementary budget

The Zamfara State House of Assembly has approved a resolution in support of a proposed constitutional change to create a state police force in Nigeria, according to a report by Abdullahi Abdulrahaman Chakwa from Gusau. The resolution, passed during the Assembly's meeting on Monday, aims to bolster the ongoing federal and state efforts to combat security threats in the region and across the country.

Rt. Hon. Isma’ila Zannan Moriki, the Speaker of the Assembly, made the announcement at a press conference addressing journalists. He emphasized that the resolution came after the National Assembly forwarded proposed constitutional amendments to the state legislatures for their review. Moriki noted that the establishment of a state police force, if approved, would bolster security and complement the efforts of President Tinubu and Governor Dauda Lawal in tackling insecurity challenges in Zamfara and the nation.

The state has been grappling with persistent security issues, including attacks and abductions perpetrated by armed groups. Moriki underscored the Assembly's commitment to its constitutional duties and dismissed rumors that recent political shifts involving some lawmakers had impacted its operations. The Speaker asserted that the House remained "stable, functional, and fully engaged" in legislative activities.

He also commented on the recent defection of several lawmakers from the All Progressives Congress (APC), emphasizing that their political choices were distinct from disciplinary proceedings initiated against them. These lawmakers were suspended in February 2024 due to allegations of misconduct, conspiracy, and contempt of the House. Their suspension was extended on May 13, 2026, as the disciplinary matters remained unresolved.

Moriki urged the public to differentiate between the lawmakers' political decisions and the disciplinary measures taken against them, stressing that their defection did not affect ongoing legislative or legal proceedings. He reiterated the Assembly's dedication to the rule of law, legislative integrity, and the safeguarding of public institutions.

The resolution on the creation of a state police force is part of a broader constitutional amendment process currently under consideration by state legislatures following proposals transmitted from the National Assembly.