Senate President Godswill Akpabio has called on lawmakers to approach the debate on the State Police Bill with open minds, guided strictly by national interest, constitutional principles, and the collective welfare of Nigerians.
Akpabio made the call on Wednesday in Abuja during the resumption of plenary, as the Senate prepared to consider the bill seeking to alter the 1999 Constitution to establish State Police and related matters.
The Senate President urged his colleagues to set aside personal views and prioritize national security and public safety in their deliberations.
"We must approach the debate with open minds, guided solely by the national interests, constitutional principles and the collective welfare of the Nigerian people," Akpabio said.
He noted that although the bill was transmitted to the National Assembly as an executive bill, lawmakers must treat it with the seriousness it deserves.
Akpabio also reminded senators of the Senate's tradition of robust and constructive debates, encouraging them to contribute freely but respectfully.
"This chamber has always distinguished itself as a forum for robust, informed and constructive debates. I, therefore, encourage all distinguished senators to make their contributions freely, respectfully, thoughtfully to the Constitution and to have in mind the constitutional importance of ensuring the safety and security of lives and properties," he said.
The Senate President further charged lawmakers to draw from their diverse backgrounds, regional perspectives, and collective wisdom to reach a decision that would stand the test of time.
"Let us draw from our diverse experiences, regional perspectives and collective wisdom to ensure that the outcome of our deliberations today and the outcome of our voting today will meet the aspirations of all Nigerians and secure not just the homes but the entirety of the country," Akpabio stated.
Describing the bill as historic, Akpabio noted that its passage would shape the future of policing, public safety, and inter-governmental relations in Nigeria for generations to come.
"The decisions we take will have the potential to shape the future of policing, public safety, inter-governmental relations in Nigeria for generations to come. I dare say that this has never been done since independence in 1960," he said.
The Senate President charged the senators to approach the task with the gravity it deserved.