The House of Representatives (Reps) on Tuesday moved to extend police retirement age and service duration age, as it passes a bill extending retirement age from 60 to 65 years, and service duration from 35 to 40 years. If enacted, officers will retire at 65 or after 40 years of service, whichever comes first.
Purpose of the Police Act Amendment Bill
Sponsored by Speaker Abbas Tajudeen and the Chairman of the House Committee on Police Affairs, Abubakar Yalleman, the Police Act Amendment Bill aims to enhance the police workforce. The bill is intended to retain experienced officers, reduce recruitment and training costs, and improve overall job satisfaction and performance among the police force.
Debate Highlights and Justifications
During the brief debate on the bill, Yalleman highlighted the necessity of the amendment. He emphasized the importance of retaining trained and experienced officers, particularly in the current climate of national insecurity, where their expertise is critical.
Additional Legislative Actions
In the same session, lawmakers considered a bill to remove the requirement for public servants to declare the assets of their spouses. This bill, sponsored by Olawale Raji of the Epe Federal Constituency, argues that the requirement conflicts with the Constitution and the President’s prerogative of mercy.
Arguments for and Against the Asset Declaration Bill
Raji described the asset declaration requirement as unfair, noting that individuals could face prosecution if the declared information is false. However, House Minority Leader Kingsley Chinda defended the requirement, arguing it prevents public officers from hiding stolen assets under their spouses’ names. He also proposed reducing the age limit for declaring children’s assets from 21 to 18.
Next Steps for the Bills
Following deliberations, the Police Act Amendment Bill was referred to the Committee on Police Affairs, while the bill to amend the Code of Conduct Bureau and Tribunal Act was directed to the Committee on Anti-Corruption for further review. These steps mark the ongoing legislative process to refine and enact these significant changes.
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