Nigeria Senate Approves Bill for State Police Forces

Under the proposed structure, state police forces would operate alongside the federal police, with the latter retaining control over counterterrorism, border security, and organized crime. Analysts suggest that a lack of police presence in rural areas has exacerbated the nation's security challenges, allowing extremist and criminal elements to operate with relative impunity. The United Nations has reported that these groups have caused tens of thousands of deaths.

The legislation, which has bipartisan backing and is supported by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has been a subject of debate for years as a potential solution to the country's numerous conflicts. However, the bill must still be approved by two-thirds of the state assemblies to become law, as it involves a constitutional change. Critics have raised concerns that state governors could misuse these forces for personal or political agendas, potentially silencing dissent.