Senate shifts debate on Police reform, says session will be televised live

The Senate has postponed the planned consideration of the constitutional alteration bill aimed at decentralising policing in Nigeria, a key reform expected to pave the way for the establishment of State Police across the federation.

The upper chamber also announced that the constitutional review session, when eventually held, will be broadcast live to ensure greater public participation and transparency in the legislative process.

The consideration of the report was originally scheduled for Tuesday but was deferred following the death of a member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Yaya Bauchi Tongo, who represented the Gombe/Kwami/Funakaye Federal Constituency of Gombe State.

Lawmakers described the postponement as a mark of respect for the deceased legislator, noting that parliamentary activities would be adjusted accordingly to honour his service.

The Senate had earlier issued formal notice of the session through a memorandum dated June 15, 2026, signed by the Clerk of the Senate, Emmanuel Odo, informing lawmakers of the planned deliberation on the constitutional amendment.

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The proposed alteration of the Constitution is part of broader national efforts to reform Nigeria’s policing structure by devolving certain security responsibilities to state governments. Proponents argue that the creation of State Police would improve response times to local security challenges and enhance community-level law enforcement.

However, the debate over decentralised policing has remained highly sensitive, with concerns about potential abuse of power, funding constraints, and coordination with federal security agencies.

Senate leadership has now assured that when deliberations resume, Nigerians will be able to follow proceedings live, a move described as part of efforts to deepen transparency and public trust in the constitutional review process.

Lawmakers are expected to announce a new date for the consideration of the bill following consultations and formal mourning procedures in honour of the late federal lawmaker.