U.S. Congressman Riley Moore has expressed support for the Nigerian Senate’s approval of a constitutional amendment proposal aimed at introducing state police, saying the move could strengthen security and improve protection for citizens, especially Christians affected by violence.
Moore, who represents West Virginia’s 2nd Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives, shared his reaction in a statement posted on his X account on Wednesday.
His remarks followed the Senate’s passage of the Constitution Alteration Bill, a proposal intended to reform Nigeria’s security structure by allowing states to establish independent police agencies while retaining the existing federal police system.
Commenting on the development, Moore noted that decentralising law enforcement is a policy he has long supported through both public advocacy and private engagement.
The American lawmaker, known for raising concerns over attacks on Christian communities in Nigeria, described the Senate’s action as a positive development in efforts to improve local security and response mechanisms.
According to Moore, enabling state governments to manage their own policing operations would reduce reliance on central authorities and create faster, more targeted responses to security threats.
He said empowering state administrations to safeguard residents is essential in addressing insecurity and strengthening the protection of vulnerable populations.
Moore also recognised President Bola Tinubu’s role in supporting the initiative and commended efforts made to advance the legislation.
However, he explained that the process is not yet complete, noting that the amendment still requires approval from at least two-thirds of Nigeria’s state Houses of Assembly before becoming law.
He stressed that endorsement by the states remains the next major requirement for implementation.
Earlier on Wednesday, the Senate approved the constitutional amendment after receiving support from more than two-thirds of lawmakers during voting.
The proposed framework would introduce a policing arrangement in which state security agencies operate alongside the Nigeria Police Force.
Under the bill, state governors would have authority to nominate Commissioners of Police, subject to confirmation by their respective state legislatures.
The proposal also contains safeguards intended to prevent abuse of power, including provisions stating that state police cannot be used to intimidate or act against individuals or groups solely for criticising a state government except where permitted under existing laws.
If all constitutional requirements are met and the required state approvals are secured, the amendment will officially become part of Nigeria’s Constitution.
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