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Benjamin Kalu Reassures Nigerians on State Police Bill, Calls for Constructive Dialogue
Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, has provided further clarification on the proposed State Police Bill, assuring Nigerians that the initiative is designed to strengthen the nation's security architecture while preserving constitutional safeguards and national unity. He made the remarks during the National Townhall on Building a National Consensus on State Police and National Security.
Speaking before a gathering of policymakers, security experts, traditional rulers, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders, Kalu acknowledged that many Nigerians have expressed concerns about the possible misuse of state police by political actors. He stressed that such concerns are legitimate and deserve careful consideration as the constitutional amendment process progresses.
The Deputy Speaker explained that the proposed legislation is being developed with robust checks and balances to ensure accountability, professionalism, and respect for the rule of law. According to him, the objective is not to weaken existing federal security institutions but to complement them by creating a more responsive policing system capable of addressing local security challenges.
Kalu noted that Nigeria's growing security threats require innovative and practical solutions, adding that a centralized policing structure alone can no longer adequately meet the country's diverse security needs. He emphasized that state policing, if properly regulated, could improve intelligence gathering, rapid response to crime, and collaboration between communities and security agencies.
He further stated that the ongoing constitutional review process provides Nigerians with an opportunity to contribute meaningfully to reforms that will shape the country's future. He encouraged citizens and stakeholders to continue engaging constructively, assuring them that every opinion and recommendation would be carefully considered by the National Assembly.
Reaffirming the commitment of the House of Representatives to inclusive lawmaking, Kalu said the National Townhall reflects the legislature's determination to build broad national consensus before any final decision is taken on the State Police Bill. He maintained that the ultimate goal remains the protection of lives and property, the strengthening of democratic institutions, and the creation of a safer and more secure Nigeria for all citizens.
