The Nigeria Police Force is often perceived as hostile and unapproachable by the very citizens it is meant to protect. Many Nigerians, regardless of how law-abiding they are, fear interactions with the police. It has become common for officers to attempt to find fault with citizens, real or fabricated and, in many cases, provoke individuals into saying something that can be used as grounds for further interrogation or even detention.
The slogan “The Police is Your Friend” remains more aspirational than factual. While law enforcement must uphold the law and maintain order, they should do so with respect for human rights and dignity. Unfortunately, in Nigeria, encounters with the police often feel like confrontations, not civic engagements. Until our police officers are trained to treat citizens with respect and impartiality, that slogan will continue to ring hollow.
Admittedly, not all Nigerians obey the law. A culture of impunity has grown over the years, many people dodge taxes, levies, and public responsibilities. Employers in the private sector often underpay workers, in many cases failing to meet even the recently approved minimum wage. Still, the answer to this lawlessness is not more authoritarian policing, but a better system that ensures justice, transparency, and accountability.
One particularly troubling practice recently observed at the Ajuwon Police Station in Ifo Local Government Area of Ogun State is the mandatory submission of mobile phones at the entrance. Whether you’re filing a complaint, visiting a detainee, or simply carrying out lawful business, citizens are required to give up their means of communication. This practice is deeply concerning. Once stripped of your phone, you’re isolated—vulnerable to mistreatment by lower-ranking officers without the ability to document abuse or call for help. There are credible reports of people being unlawfully detained for days, even weeks, without anyone knowing their whereabouts. In an age where mobile phones serve as lifelines, this policy is not only archaic but dangerous.
One must ask: is it lawful to deny citizens access to their personal phones when they enter a public facility like a police station? Authorities should clarify this policy and ensure it does not become a tool for silencing victims and hiding abuse.
It’s worth noting that not all officers behave poorly. The Divisional Police Officer (DPO) at Ajuwon, for instance, is known to act with professionalism and fairness. Unfortunately, the officers under his command often exhibit the exact opposite behavior. This raises a broader question: how can such drastically different attitudes coexist within the same organization? The answer lies in systemic issues, lack of consistent training, poor oversight, and a deeply ingrained culture of impunity among the ranks.
The fear of being wrongfully detained or manipulated discourages many citizens from reporting crimes or seeking justice. Some officers seem more interested in exploiting the vulnerable than in resolving disputes. This must change.
We at Parrot Reporters proposal the following to make the police a true ally of the people, several reforms are essential:
1. Human Rights Training: All officers must undergo regular training focused on human rights, ethical conduct, and professional standards.
2. Public Accountability: Police stations should install functional CCTV cameras, ensure transparency in operations, and allow citizens to keep their phones, especially during official visits.
3. Independent Oversight: Complaints against officers should be handled by an independent civilian review board, not just internal mechanisms that often protect their own.
4. Improved Welfare: Better pay, housing, healthcare, and career development opportunities for police officers will reduce the temptation to engage in corrupt practices.
5. Civic Engagement: The police should engage more with the communities they serve—holding town halls, listening to citizens’ concerns, and building trust.
6. Zero Tolerance for Abuse: Officers found guilty of misconduct should face real consequences. This includes demotion, dismissal, and prosecution when necessary.
Until these reforms are implemented, the police will continue to be seen more as a threat than as a friend. But with sincere efforts, the Nigerian police can transform into an institution that earns the respect and trust of its people.
Only then can we truly say: “The Police is Your Friend.”
By Engr. Bola Babarinde, a Nigerian based in South Africa, with interest in politics, education and sports.
