The Member representing Ogori-Magongo State Constituency in the Kogi State House of Assembly, Hon. Bode Ogunmola has declared support for the proposed Sixth Alteration Bill, 2026, advocating for the establishment of State Police with strong accountability mechanisms.
Hon. Ogunmola made the declaration while reacting to the proposed constitutional amendment in an interview with Newsmen in Lokoja.
The lawmaker said there was need to decentralise policing in a manner that promotes public safety, community-based policing and respect for citizens’ rights.
He noted that although the decentralisation of policing responsibilities could improve security and intelligence gathering at the community level, adequate safeguards must be put in place to prevent the abuse of police powers.
According to him, policing involves significant responsibilities, including maintaining public order, investigating crimes and enforcing the law, making effective checks and balances essential to ensuring that law enforcement operates within the rule of law.
The lawmaker warned that without sufficient oversight, policing structures could be influenced by political interests, personal grievances and other practices capable of undermining justice and public confidence.
He emphasised that the success of State Police would depend not only on its establishment but also on the legal framework governing its operations.
Hon. Ogunmola called for merit-based recruitment, lawful operational procedures and credible, independent investigations into allegations of misconduct.
The lawmaker, urged the Kogi State House of Assembly to give the proposed amendment favourable consideration, while ensuring that the legislation establishing State Police and a Police Service Commission prioritises professionalism, institutional independence and accountability.
He maintained that these safeguards would be critical to ensuring that decentralised policing serves the public interest and protects the rights of citizens across communities.
