STATE POLICE BILL HAS SAFEGUARDS AGAINST ABUSE, DEPUTY SPEAKER TELLS EU

Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Mr. Benjamin Kalu, has assured the European Union that the proposed State Police Bill contains adequate safeguards to prevent abuse of power and protect human rights.

Kalu made the assurance on Friday during a meeting with a delegation from the EU Delegation to Nigeria led by Ambassador Samuela Isopi. He explained that the bill includes strict oversight mechanisms, accountability frameworks, and clear operational guidelines to ensure state police forces function within the bounds of the law.

“The State Police Bill is designed with robust safeguards against abuse. We have learnt from past experiences and incorporated lessons to protect citizens’ rights while addressing security challenges at the state level,” Kalu stated.

The deputy speaker highlighted the current security architecture’s limitations in addressing localised threats and the need for decentralised policing to improve response times and community engagement. He assured the EU delegation that the National Assembly is committed to a thorough and inclusive legislative process.

Ambassador Isopi commended the National Assembly for the ongoing reforms and expressed the EU’s willingness to support capacity building for state police institutions if the bill is passed. “We are encouraged by the inclusion of safeguards. The EU stands ready to share best practices and provide technical assistance where necessary,” she noted.

The meeting also discussed broader issues of security sector reform, human rights, and democratic governance. Both parties agreed on the importance of continuous dialogue and collaboration in strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture.

The proposed State Police Bill has generated significant debate across the country, with supporters arguing it will enhance security and critics expressing fears of potential abuse by state governments. The National Assembly is expected to continue consultations with stakeholders before final passage of the bill.

The deputy speaker’s engagement with the EU delegation is seen as part of efforts to build international confidence in Nigeria’s legislative processes and security reforms.