Speaking during a briefing with members of the Senate Press Corps, Senate Leader Senator Opeyemi Bamidele said the issue has emerged as one of the most important items under consideration in the ongoing constitutional amendment process.
He explained that the Senate has been engaging key stakeholders on the proposal and remains committed to advancing the legislation in line with public expectations.
“We are standing with Nigerians on state police. That will come to fruition this week during plenary.
“We have been holding a series of meetings with stakeholders and will fast-track deliberations so that the bill can proceed to the 36 state houses of assembly and eventually receive presidential assent,” he said.
Bamidele also dismissed growing calls for an investigation into the military, describing such demands as misplaced at a time when the country is confronting serious security threats.
Addressing concerns over the remuneration of federal lawmakers, the Senate Leader said the upper chamber would soon make public details relating to the salaries and allowances of senators, ministers and other public officials in a bid to promote transparency and address public criticism.
His comments followed recent court pronouncements reportedly declaring the procurement of N110 billion worth of sport utility vehicles for lawmakers, as well as aspects of their allowance structure, illegal.
Defending the purchase, Bamidele maintained that the vehicles were acquired to support lawmakers in carrying out constituency engagements and other official responsibilities.
“Every vehicle given to us is meant for constituency work and other official assignments. Public office holders are entitled to such provisions. It is neither strange nor peculiar to lawmakers in Nigeria,” the senator said.
He further stated that the Senate was not taken aback by the criticism, arguing that the legislature’s oversight functions frequently attract opposition and scrutiny from various quarters.