The House of Representatives has passed the state police bill, essentially paving the way for the decentralization of Nigeria’s policing architecture.
The resolution came after 289 parliamentarians voted in favor of state police during Thursday’s plenary session, which was presided over by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas.
Following a recent surge in homicides, kidnappings, and banditry, the House committed to voting on the State Police Bill during Thursday’s plenary session.
The session was not without drama, as shortly after the lawmakers began the day’s business, Kaduna lawmaker Bashir Zubairu moved a point of order, explaining that the document on the proposed state police put together by the House Committee on Constitution Review had only been delivered to the lawmakers on Thursday afternoon.
Recognized to speak by the speaker, Zubairu stated, “Mr. Speaker, this document was only made available to lawmakers in the chambers, and we have yet to go through it.” We cannot do justice to it because we have not gone through it.”
Zubairu, a member of the African Democratic Congress, was declared out of order, enabling the proceedings to continue.
While the speaker guided members through the clauses, voices shouting “Point of Order” could be heard, but the presiding officer dismissed them.
Before voting began, Abbas revealed that the computerized voting equipment was broken and that the exercise would be based on attendance.
Out of the 290 members in attendance, 289 voted in favor of state police, with one voting against. The speaker abstained from voting.
Details later…
