Yobe Assembly approves state police bill

The Kaduna State House of Assembly has approved a proposed amendment to the 1999 Constitution, which would permit the establishment of state police services. This decision came after the proposal was presented to the Assembly by the National Assembly for consideration by the legislative body. During Thursday's plenary session, chaired by Deputy Speaker Henry Magaji Dajuma, lawmakers voted in favor of the amendment.

Henry Marah, the Chair of the House Committee on Information and representative of Jaba State Constituency, commented on the Assembly's decision. Marah emphasized that state policing is essential to tackle security issues effectively, improve protection for residents and their property, and create employment opportunities for the youth.

He also criticized the existing policing structure, arguing that it hinders state governments from maintaining direct accountability when security forces fail to address threats. Marah highlighted that the new framework would bolster community-level security efforts and enhance responses to criminal activities such as banditry. The Assembly intends to draft legislation to establish operational guidelines and safeguard the welfare of personnel in the proposed state police service.

Funding for this security initiative will be prioritized, even if it necessitates reducing spending on other projects. The Kaduna Assembly backs the proposed constitutional amendment for state police.