Imo Assembly Gives Nod To Establishment Of State Police
The Imo State House of Assembly has passed a motion endorsing the Bill for an Act to amend the Constitution of Nigeria to facilitate the establishment of State Police.
This approval was granted during the plenary session held on Wednesday, October 21, 2026.
During the discussion, the Leader of the House and Member representing Owerri-West State Constituency, Kanayo Onyemaechi, emphasized the critical need to enhance the nation’s security framework to improve responses to security threats and to protect lives and property.
Onyemaechi further noted that the National Assembly had forwarded a Bill for an Act to amend the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), which aims to establish State Police Services and address related matters, to the Imo State House of Assembly for consideration and resolution.
He highlighted that the establishment of State Police would complement the existing national police force by enhancing security coordination at both state and community levels. The Imo State House of Assembly is fulfilling its statutory duty by considering and expressing its stance on this constitutional alteration.
He pointed out that the National Assembly’s action aligns with the constitutional requirement mandating that State Assemblies provide consent by a two-thirds majority for the process to proceed.
Onyemaechi urged his colleagues to support the Bill, asserting that addressing insecurity—manifested through banditry, kidnapping, and other criminal activities—requires effective local policing, as demonstrated in advanced countries.
The motion, seconded by the Chief Whip and member representing Oru-East State Constituency, Chigozie Nwaneri, garnered support from 22 lawmakers.
They concurred that insecurity is a localized issue that should be effectively addressed by the residents of the area, who possess a better understanding of their local security dynamics, thereby also creating employment opportunities.
Following the debate, the Speaker, Chike Olemgbe, who presided over the session, called for a vote, which resulted in unanimous approval.
The Clerk was subsequently instructed to communicate the resolution of the House to the Clerk of the National Assembly for further legislative action.
