Nigeria | May 29, 2024
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According to a report by Truth Nigeria published on 18 May 2024, huge changes to Nigeria’s police system seem likely after strong political support for change was voiced by all of Nigeria’s 36 state assemblies. Nigeria is grappling with violent Islamic militants, jihadist banditry and Fulani militias, and the police stand accused of collusion and of failing to respond to calls for help. Supporters of the state police model believe that bringing police under the control of state governors will make them more accountable. However, Police Inspector General Kayode Egbetokun has voiced opposition. Fears have also been raised by journalists, activists and representatives of political interest groups.
“Power-hungry state governors in Nigeria have had a long history of using force for electoral gain, or private business gain,” notes Naomi Williams of World Watch Research. “The potential for abuse if politicians control the police is clear. How to safeguard against that is a huge question, but many politicians feel there is little choice. President Tinubu is understood to be strongly behind the idea. Nigeria’s Parliament is currently reviewing the 1999 Constitution, and it seems likely a new policing bill will emerge and become law soon.”
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