Lawmakers release final draft of constitutional amendment bills covering security, electoral and governance reforms as decisive plenary vote holds today.
The House of Representatives has released the final print of the Constitution Alteration Bills set for consideration and voting during today’s plenary, with proposals for the establishment of state police taking centre stage.
The development marks a major milestone in the ongoing review of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), following months of legislative work by the House Committee on Constitution Review.
According to a statement by the House Spokesman, Rep. Akintunde Rotimi, the bills are the outcome of extensive consultations with lawmakers, government agencies, civil society groups, traditional institutions and citizens across the country.
The review process included zonal public hearings, stakeholder engagements, expert sessions and town hall meetings across the six geopolitical zones, aimed at ensuring broad national participation.
Key areas covered by the proposed amendments include electoral reforms, judicial restructuring, security and policing, devolution of powers, fiscal reforms, human rights, local government administration and institutional strengthening.
Of particular focus is the bill seeking to establish a constitutional framework for state police, a proposal that has generated widespread debate amid growing concerns over national security challenges.
The bill seeks to create a decentralised policing structure with clearly defined powers between federal and state authorities, alongside oversight mechanisms to ensure accountability and coordination.
Deputy Speaker and Chairman of the Constitution Review Committee, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, described the release of the final draft as a significant step toward building a more responsive constitutional order.
He said the proposals reflect contributions from Nigerians across all sectors, adding that the state police proposal responds to long-standing demands for a more effective security architecture.
The House is expected to vote on the bills during plenary, provided the required quorum is met. If not, consideration will be deferred in line with legislative procedures.
Lawmakers say the exercise underscores their commitment to strengthening democratic governance, improving security, deepening federalism and enhancing citizen participation in national decision-making