TheCable

The Kano state house of assembly has called for an amendment of the 1999 Constitution to enable the creation of state police to address the current security challenges in the country.

There have been numerous calls for the creation of state police as part of efforts to improve security.

Among stakeholders who have supported the creation of state police are Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo, former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, and members of Afenifere, the Yoruba socio-cultural group.

Some regions have created security outfits such as the Western Nigeria Security Network codenamed Amotekun in the south-west, and Ebube Agu launched in the south-east.

In July, a bill seeking to establish state police passed second reading at the house of representatives.

According to a communique issued by the Kano assembly at the end of a three-day legislative retreat for members organised by LeGIS 37, a private firm, in collaboration with the national assembly, the lawmakers also called for the devolution of power to states and local governments.

In a communique issued after the retreat on Wednesday, the assembly said efforts are ongoing for the development of annual work plan documents that will guide the activities of the house for improved transparency, accountability and probity in the management of resources.

The lawmakers also advocated regular training and re-training of members and staff of the house to enhance performance in the implementation process of financial autonomy for the legislature.