The House of Representatives has withdrawn its self-sponsored constitutional amendment bill seeking the establishment of state police, opting instead to adopt the executive-backed version submitted by President Bola Tinubu.

The decision, taken during Tuesday's plenary session on July 14, paves the way for lawmakers to concentrate on the presidency's proposal as the sole legislative framework for introducing state policing in Nigeria.

Following the withdrawal of its draft bill, the Green Chamber immediately accelerated consideration of the executive-sponsored legislation, underscoring its commitment to advancing reforms aimed at decentralising the country's policing system.

The presidency's State Police Bill successfully passed both its first and second readings during Tuesday's proceedings. It was subsequently referred to the House Committee on Constitutional Review for further legislative work, including stakeholder consultations, public hearings, and a clause-by-clause examination.

The move effectively harmonises ongoing efforts to reform Nigeria's policing architecture, eliminating the need for parallel legislative processes. By adopting a single bill, lawmakers hope to simplify the constitutional amendment procedure required to establish state police.

The committee is expected to thoroughly review the provisions of the executive bill before submitting its report to the House for consideration and eventual passage.