Bayelsa Assembly approves state police, introduces two bills

The Bayelsa State House of Assembly has approved the proposed sixth alteration to the 1999 Constitution to provide for the establishment of state police services and other related matters.

The approval followed the transmission of the constitutional amendment bill by the National Assembly to the 36 state Houses of Assembly for consideration and endorsement.

The lawmakers considered the proposal during plenary in the Committee of the Whole before voting in favour of the amendment.

The Speaker of the House, Abraham Ingobere, represented by the Deputy Speaker, Michael Ogbere, commended members for their prompt consideration and approval of the proposal.

He described the decision as another historic milestone for the Seventh Assembly, commending the lawmakers for their commitment to the legislative process.

The Speaker said, “The approval of the proposed establishment of state police services is a significant step in the constitutional amendment process. I commend members for their prompt consideration and commitment to the legislative responsibilities before the House.

“The participation of members and their contributions during plenary demonstrate the importance we attach to issues affecting governance, security and the well-being of our people.”

The proposed constitutional amendment seeks to provide a legal framework for the establishment of state police services, although its implementation will depend on the completion of the constitutionally prescribed amendment process.

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In another development, the Assembly has taken the first readings of two bills: the Ijaw Cultural Heritage Bill and the Retirement Age for Magistrates and Chairmen of Customary Courts Bill, 2026.

The introduction of the Ijaw Cultural Heritage Bill marks the beginning of its legislative consideration, with the proposed legislation expected to address issues relating to the preservation and promotion of Ijaw cultural heritage.

The Retirement Age for Magistrates and Chairmen of Customary Courts Bill, 2026, is also expected to undergo further legislative scrutiny before the House determines its next steps.

The Speaker, in his remarks, urged members to sustain their commitment to legislative duties and the consideration of bills and motions brought before the Assembly.

“Our responsibility as lawmakers is to give careful consideration to matters before the House and ensure that our legislative decisions reflect the interests of the people we represent,” he said.

The two bills will proceed through the relevant legislative stages before the Assembly can decide on their passage.

The latest actions underscore the House’s ongoing consideration of constitutional amendments and proposed state legislation relating to security, cultural heritage and the administration of justice.