The [Gombe State House of Assembly](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gombe_State_House_of_Assembly) voted to adopt a package of constitutional amendments that would allow the creation of a [State Police](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/State_police_(Nigeria)) in Nigeria, after the proposals were transmitted by the [National Assembly](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Assembly_(Nigeria)) on 6 October 2026 and secured a two‑thirds majority in the chamber.
Key details of the development include: the amendment package contains 26 clauses; it was examined by a seven‑member ad hoc committee on constitutional review; the report received two‑thirds support as required by Order 17, Rule 3 of the Gombe Assembly Standing Orders, 2020; and the Speaker, Abubakar Muhammad Luggerewo, announced unanimous backing for the framework. Deputy Speaker Hon. Sadam Bello Sale, who chaired the committee, said, "The report received the support of a two‑thirds majority of lawmakers." The move brings the total number of Nigerian states that have endorsed a state police to 25.
What amendments were considered?
The proposed changes target several sections of the [1999 Constitution](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Constitution_of_Nigeria) to create a legal basis for State Police Services to operate alongside the federally controlled Nigeria Police Force. The amendments aim to decentralise policing responsibilities, giving each state the authority to establish its own police unit to address local security challenges more effectively.
How was the legislative process carried out?
Following receipt of the amendment draft, the Gombe Assembly formed a seven‑member ad hoc committee chaired by Deputy Speaker Hon. Sadam Bello Sale. The committee consulted relevant stakeholders, reviewed the 26‑clause proposal, and compiled a report recommending adoption. The report was presented to the plenary on Thursday, where members debated the recommendations in a Committee of the Whole before voting.
Who served on the ad hoc committee?
The committee comprised Hon. Sadam Bello Sale, Hon. Musa Buaba, Hon. Shuaibu Adamu Haruna, Hon. Golkos Gaius Gaji, Hon. Abdullahi Abubakar, Hon. Muhammad Tahir and Hon. Adamu Sale Pata. Barr. Hauwa Abdullahi and Barr. Babadidi J. Mele acted as secretaries to the committee, assisting with documentation and coordination.
What did the Speaker say about the outcome?
Speaker Abubakar Muhammad Luggerewo praised the unanimous support, stating that the legal framework would strengthen security across the nation. He commended the legislators for their dedication and resilience in fulfilling their legislative duties, emphasizing that the establishment of State Police would enhance the country's overall response to rising security threats.
The adoption of these amendments positions Gombe State as a key participant in Nigeria's broader constitutional reform agenda aimed at decentralising law enforcement and improving public safety.