The Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, Emmanuel Emeruwa, has assured residents that lawmakers will prioritise the protection of citizens when considering the proposed state police bill after it is transmitted to the state legislature.

Speaking in an exclusive interview with South-East PUNCH in Umuahia, Emeruwa explained that although the Senate has passed the bill, it still requires the approval of state assemblies across the federation before it can be implemented.

He said the Abia State House of Assembly supports the Senate's position on the proposed legislation, including the provision that empowers state governors to approve the appointment of commissioners of police.

“Most of the provisions have already been deliberated on before this final passage.

“I was part of the conference, and I am sure that the state assembly will agree with the Senate provision or whatever that has been passed on at the Senate level for the constitutional amendment and the powers they have given the governors to appoint commissioner of police. Since it will be operated in the states, nobody else can appoint commissioner of police if not the governor.

“However, I will not pre-empt the other lawmakers now until we look at the bill and see all the merits and demerits. That is when we will make a choice,” Emeruwa said.

Addressing concerns that state police could be used by governors to suppress political opponents, the Speaker expressed confidence that adequate safeguards had been built into the legislation.

“I don’t think they will, because there will be limitations to what they can do. So, if they cross the boundaries, it will be illegal. I believe that all these would have been addressed in the bill.

“So, if governors go ahead and create their own conditions, then that will be in conflict with the law, and it will not go,” he stated.

Emeruwa also acknowledged that details regarding the independence of oversight bodies for state police operations are yet to become fully clear. However, he maintained that the existing system of checks and balances among the three arms of government would help ensure accountability.

“The three arms of government have their own checks and balances, and that is where the House is to oversee every department within the state.

“I also know that at the national level, as of today, the police is being supervised. So, the state will also have that kind of checks and balances in case of excesses,” he added.