The Lagos State House of Assembly has unanimously endorsed the proposed establishment of state police and called for constitutional provisions to establish parliamentary police to protect legislative institutions and safeguard democratic governance.
The Speaker, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, disclosed this on Tuesday during plenary, following the lawmakers’ decision to cut short their recess to consider the constitutional amendment bill transmitted by the National Assembly.
Obasa said the establishment of state police had remained a recurring issue from the fifth to the 10th Assembly, with successive legislatures exploring ways to strengthen security and protect lives and property.
He described the proposed amendment as a step forward but expressed concern that some issues raised by state legislatures, particularly those concerning the control of state police and their relationship with federal policing structures, had not been adequately addressed.
The proposed amendment, titled the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (Sixth Alteration) Act, 2026, seeks to provide for the establishment of the State Police Service and related matters.
Obasa said he was pleased that the issue of state police had received attention, expressing hope that further developments would give states greater control over their policing arrangements.
He also commended President Bola Tinubu for his commitment to democracy and democratic institutions, as well as the National Assembly, particularly the Senate and the House of Representatives, for their contributions to the amendment process.
The Speaker further commended State Houses of Assembly for supporting the proposal, noting that nearly 25 States had expressed support for the constitutional alteration.
According to him, the disparity could create an advantage for one level of government over another, stressing that the functions and responsibilities of state police should be clearly defined, with appropriate provisions made for State legislatures.
Obasa also called for a clear constitutional provision for parliamentary police to protect legislative institutions and preserve their independence, citing past incidents in which state legislative buildings had allegedly been demolished or locked up at the instance of governors.
He said establishing parliamentary police would help prevent such incidents, strengthen state legislatures and safeguard democracy.
The Speaker expressed confidence that outstanding issues would be addressed as the process continued, thanking his colleagues for supporting the amendment and urging continued cooperation with the National Assembly.
The House therefore adjourned to November 9, 2026.
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