The Ebonyi State House of Assembly has passed the State Police Bill transmitted by the National Assembly for concurrence, with all 24 lawmakers voting in support of the proposed constitutional amendment.

The bill seeks to amend the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as amended, to provide a legal framework for the establishment of state police services across the country while retaining the Nigeria Police Force at the federal level.

The bill was passed during plenary at the Assembly Complex on Nkaliki Road, Abakaliki, following deliberations and consultations with constituents.

The Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Moses Ije Odunwa, who presided over the session, said the unanimous decision demonstrated the legislature’s commitment to constitutional reforms aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture, improving criminal intelligence and protecting lives and property.

Odunwa explained that the establishment of state police had remained a longstanding demand among the people of Ebonyi State, noting that the state had earlier presented its position in support of the proposal during a public hearing organised by the National Assembly as part of the ongoing constitutional review.

“The passage of this bill reflects the wishes of Ebonyians who desire a policing system that is closer to the people and more responsive to local security challenges,” the Speaker stated.

The House Leader and member representing Afikpo North-West Constituency, Hon. Kingsley Ikoro, said the proposed state police system would increase the number of security personnel available and strengthen efforts to combat crime at the grassroots.

Also speaking, Hon. Victor Chidi Nwoke, representing Abakaliki North Constituency; Hon. Oluchukwu Ukie Ezeali, representing Afikpo North-East Constituency; and the Chief Whip, Hon. Nkemka Okoro Onumah, underscored the need for a policing system that brings security operations closer to the people.

The lawmakers maintained that decentralising policing responsibilities could help improve responses to security threats within local communities.

Following the passage, Odunwa directed the Clerk of the House, Mrs. Uche Edene, to transmit a formal memorandum conveying the Assembly’s resolution to the National Assembly.

The development marks Ebonyi lawmakers’ formal endorsement of the proposed constitutional reform, which seeks to establish state police services as part of broader efforts to address Nigeria’s security challenges.