The Nigerian Senate has clarified that the Federal Capital Territory cannot establish its own state police under the proposed constitutional amendment, as the FCT lacks a governor and a State House of Assembly to exercise oversight.
Under the state police bill passed by the National Assembly, the creation of a state police service is tied to the existence of state-level executive and legislative structures. The bill empowers state governors to appoint Commissioners of Police for their states, subject to confirmation by the respective State Houses of Assembly. Since the FCT is administered by a minister appointed by the President and has no elected governor or State Assembly, it does not meet the constitutional requirements for establishing its own police service. The implication is that while the 36 states will be able to create their own police services alongside the federal police, the FCT will continue to rely on federal policing structures.
The legislation includes safeguards to prevent abuse by governors, with President Tinubu assuring that “guardrails” will be in place. The bill requires states to demonstrate credible arrangements for recruitment, training, pay, pensions, equipment, and independent oversight before they can begin policing. The National Policing Bill, which is expected to be ready for President Tinubu’s review by September 3, will set national minimum standards and define state readiness certification. The Nigeria Governors’ Forum has clarified that there is no federal attempt to control state police, and the legislation is intended to provide an operational framework rather than centralise control.