House Approves State Police Bill to Limit Governors’ Control of Police Commissions
The House of Representatives has passed the State Police Constitution Alteration Bill. It establishes State Police Services alongside the Federal Police Service and guarantees direct funding. Commissions at federal and state levels will be shielded from presidential or gubernatorial control. The bill clearly defines federal and state police roles. The Federal Police will handle terrorism, organised crime, border security and federal offences. State Police will enforce state laws, maintain public order and protect lives and property locally. Federal intervention is allowed only as a last resort under strict conditions. Oversight bodies will become more independent and inclusive. The National Police Council will replace governors with Attorneys-General and add civil society and professional representatives. Police Service Commissions will set their own procedures and report annually to legislatures. Existing officers and institutions will carry over until states meet national standards. Vigilante and security outfits cannot convert into State Police automatically. The new dual policing system aims to balance local autonomy with national security.
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