By By Elizabeth Ugbo
United States Congressman Riley Moore has welcomed the Nigerian Senate’s passage of the State Police Constitution Alteration Bill. Moore, who represents West Virginia’s 2nd Congressional District, reacted on Wednesday through a post on X. He praised the legislation because it seeks to establish state police forces across Nigeria. According to him, the reform will help states protect citizens more effectively, especially persecuted Christians, while reducing reliance on federal authorities in Abuja.
Moore Commends Senate’s Decision
Moore said he had advocated for state policing both publicly and privately for several years.
“I’m encouraged to see Nigeria’s Senate approve legislation to establish state-level police forces,” he wrote.
He added that the reform remains critical to addressing insecurity and protecting vulnerable communities across the country.
“I can’t stress how critical this law is. It will empower states to protect their own citizens and reduce dependence on decision-makers in Abuja,” Moore stated.
The lawmaker also linked the proposed reform to efforts aimed at defending Christians facing persecution in parts of Nigeria.
Senate Passes Landmark State Police Bill
The Senate approved the Constitution Alteration Bill on Wednesday after more than two-thirds of senators voted in support during a manual voting exercise.
The legislation seeks to decentralise policing by allowing states to establish and operate police services alongside the Nigeria Police Force.
In addition, the proposal gives state governors the power to appoint Commissioners of Police. However, state Houses of Assembly must confirm such appointments.
Safeguards Against Abuse Included
The bill contains provisions designed to prevent misuse of state police powers.
Under the proposal, state police cannot target individuals or groups simply for criticising a state government. Law enforcement actions must follow established legal procedures.
Supporters argue that these safeguards will promote accountability and protect citizens’ rights.
Constitutional Ratification Still Required
Despite Senate approval, the bill has not yet become law.
Moore noted that at least two-thirds of Nigeria’s state Houses of Assembly must ratify the constitutional amendment before it takes effect.
“President Tinubu deserves credit for pushing it forward, but now we need two-thirds of the states to ratify it before it takes effect,” he said.
Once the required approvals are secured and other constitutional procedures are completed, Nigeria could formally adopt a state policing system.
Implications for Nigeria’s Security
Security experts have long debated the need for state police. Supporters believe the reform will improve local intelligence gathering and faster responses to crime.
If implemented, the new framework will create a policing structure that operates concurrently with the federal police system while giving states greater responsibility for internal security.
