By Fatima Saka
6
The Chairman of the Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, has underscored the necessity for the decentralization of authority and the establishment of state police in Nigeria.
Sequel to the transmission of the National Assembly’s resolutions on the proposed amendments to State Houses of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Ogundoyin addressed the Senate Committee on Constitution Review during the committee retreat in Kano State.
He presented crucial submissions on behalf of the Conference of Speakers, advocating for the creation of State Police forces.
He highlighted the advantages of such a move, including enhanced local security, community policing, alleviation of federal responsibilities, improved accountability, increased employment opportunities, and customized law enforcement.
The Conference Chairman also proposed the transfer of powers from the Exclusive Legislative List to the Concurrent Legislative List to allow both federal and state governments to legislate on matters such as solid minerals, labor, drugs and poisons, post, telegraph, telephone, and stamp duty.
Ogundoyin suggested amendments to Sections 92 and 110 of the Constitution to outline the removal process for presiding officers in state legislatures.
He stated that these recommendations aim to fortify Nigeria’s federal structure, promote sustainable development, and enhance transparency and democratic governance.
Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin reiterated the importance of promptly conveying the National Assembly’s resolutions on proposed amendments in the 1999 Constitution to the State Houses of Assembly nationwide.
He stressed the significance of an early commencement to prevent a recurrence of challenges faced due to political activities during the 2023 General elections, which impeded critical processes and procedures in the last amendment endeavor.
