WE’LL PASS REFORM BILL, SENATE ASSURES POLICE

WE’LL PASS REFORM BILL, SENATE ASSURES POLICE

The President of the Senate, Bukola Saraki, on Wednesday assured the acting Inspector-General of Police, Mohammed Adamu, that the National Assembly would pass the Police Reform Bill and Police Trust Fund Bill before the end of its tenure.

Saraki, according to a statement by his Special Assistant on New Media, Olu Onemola, made the promise when Adamu paid him a courtesy visit in his office.

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The former Kwara State governor reiterated the National Assembly’s commitment to strengthening the nation’s security architecture.

He said the bills, which are at various stages in both chambers of the National Assembly, would help strengthen the force.

Saraki said, “The performance of the Nigeria Police Force is key to our nation’s security. This is because apart from us ensuring that the institution is well-funded, we need to ensure that the police play their constitutional role in the security of our nation.

“Funding is a major issue, and I know that a lot of work has been done to ensure that the Police Trust Fund Bill gets to its current stage in the House. Before the end of the 8th Senate, I want to assure you that we will pass the bill.”

He added, “Another critical issue is the Police Reform Bill which has gone through a public hearing with a major input from stakeholders.

“We started this process before your tenure, but we can still allow a few more days before it is laid, so that you too can make your contributions.

“We would like you to take a close look at this bill alongside the committee, so that by next week, we can lay the report of the bill and pass it.”

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Adamu said the passage of the Police Trust Fund Bill, which has been passed by the House of Representatives but still being considered by the Senate, remained a priority.

He said, “The security challenges facing the country are many, however, the resources are limited. It is our view that the passage of the Police Trust Fund Bill would assist in strengthening the institution and alleviating many of the challenges that we face.”