OPINION: Police Brutality And Extra-Judicial Killings, Still A Reoccurring Nightmare In Delta State

These Brutalities And Lawlessness Must Stop!

As the frontline agency for protecting human lives and property, the Nigeria Police Force is the most visible and largest contingent safeguarding civil and human rights, where each officer has a responsibility to recognize and adhere to the ethical and legal imperatives necessary for protecting the civil rights of all individuals within a place. However, it is crucial to acknowledge that policing in Nigeria originated from colonial rule, where the people had suffered constant intimidation, brutality and violence, and currently, it seems to serve the interests of the elite over those of the general populace…

The alleged cases of police brutality, where citizens residing in the state are being assaulted, leaving youths seriously wounded and some died in the process calls for serious concerns by the Delta State Government and the Nigeria Police Force, through the Commissioner of Police, Delta State. The people cannot afford to contend with two things at the same time; hardship and harassment from police officers, a supposed institution expected to protect the people.

Even while, I have consistently cautioned the public to remain calm and treat the Nigerian Police officers with respect, regardless of the situation. Similarly, members of the public should be accorded the same respect; as citizens, not animas. Their human rights should be protected. Human rights laws set standards for police operations, requiring respect for individuals’ rights to life, liberty, and security. As a nation, we have incorporated these principles into the constitutions and laws.

The Nigerian police have undoubtedly lost the trust and cooperation of the people, having failed to uphold human rights and foster a positive relationship between them and the public. When citizens feel their rights are respected, they are more likely to cooperate with the police. On the other hand, citizens tend to revolt against the police when there are constant abuses of human rights. Therefore, the police should make every effort to avoid a repetition of #EndSars.

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The level of development of any society is partly a function of the relative peace enjoyed in such a society and the task of maintaining peace and order in Nigeria is the responsibility of the police. Human rights principles are fundamental and by enforcing and adhering to these principles, the police agency can foster a safer, more just society. Unfortunately, this is the opposite of present day realities.

While, I will keep advocating for good hiring practices by the Nigeria Police Force for applicants and regular and necessary training for both junior and senior police officers, especially having respects for human rights, the Delta State Government must demand some sense of responsiveness from the Nigeria Police Force, Delta State, ensuring human rights are upheld. The State Police Command should not hesitate but keep punishing erring officers, as it will discourage this behaviour among the Nigeria policemen. Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers should put caution first, admonishing police officers under their supervisions to desist from the habits of assaulting, brutalizing suspecting/unsuspecting members of the public but upholding human rights values in their approaches.

Comr.(Amb.) Derrick Oritsematosan Agberen
Initiative For Social Rights Concerns
And Advancement(ISRCA)
AKA “No Justice, No Peace.”