Lagos State House of Assembly has called on the National Assembly to amend the constitution, allowing for the establishment of state police forces across Nigeria. This resolution comes in response to the growing insecurity in the country, with lawmakers emphasizing the urgent need for state police to combat the rising crime rates. In addition, the Lagos State House of Assembly urged Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to equip the state’s Neighbourhood Watch with the necessary resources to support the police in maintaining security.
During the first plenary of the 10th Assembly on Tuesday, Speaker Mudashiru Obasa highlighted the lack of adequate personnel within the current police structure, which he believes is a major contributing factor to the country’s security challenges. He commended the previous National Assembly’s efforts in amending the constitution but urged the newly sworn-in 10th Assembly to prioritize the amendment process without delay.
Obasa stressed the importance of state police in reducing unnecessary killings, kidnappings, and other security issues plaguing Nigerian society. He called on the Senate President, Speaker of the House of Representatives, and all honorable members to address this urgent matter to protect life and property.
Deputy Chief Whip David Setonji echoed Obasa’s sentiments, emphasizing the need for state police to effectively monitor and address criminal activities. Setonji highlighted recent incidents in Lagos State where individuals were fatally shot by trigger-happy policemen, emphasizing that the lack of state police hampers the ability to control and prevent such incidents.
Furthermore, Setonji pointed out the stark disparity between the significant population of Lagos State, which exceeds 24 million people, and the insufficient number of policemen available to ensure their safety. He urged the federal government and the National Assembly to amend the constitution to enable the establishment of state police forces. Setonji highlighted that state and local police forces exist globally, and Nigeria should follow suit in order to improve security.
Desmond Elliot, a lawmaker representing Surulere Constituency I, highlighted the government’s duty to protect lives and properties. He echoed the calls for constitutional amendments to accommodate state police and voiced concerns about the existing security breaches witnessed in Lagos State during traffic. Elliot emphasized that enhancing security is crucial to instilling a sense of safety among the population.
The Lagos State House of Assembly remains committed to raising awareness about the pressing issue of state police and continually reminding the government to prioritize the safety and security of its citizens.
In conclusion, the Lagos State House of Assembly’s call for the National Assembly to amend the constitution and permit state police forces across Nigeria reflects the urgent need to address the country’s escalating security challenges. By equipping state police and the Neighbourhood Watch with sufficient resources, Nigerian society can play a more active role in maintaining law and order, reducing crime rates, and protecting the lives and property of its citizens.
