Stakeholders have described the conduct of some police officers as unacceptable and that the time has come for immediate reform in the system of policing in Nigeria.
This was the view of some stakeholders at the just concluded two-day event organized by Cleen Foundation held in Owerri, Imo state, on “Citizens engagement in police reform in Nigeria.”
They also believed that the reform in Police conduct depend largely on the improvement in the political system in Nigeria.
For the Imo state Police Commissioner, Aboki Danjuma, represented by the Assistant Commissioner of Police, Edwin Nkpa, was of the view “That irrespective of challenges such as poor funding and lack of adequate training, police officers must remain committed to the tenets of accountability and trust. There’s no reason to justify corruption and extortion because irrespective of whatever challenges there may be, the police is built on the tenets of accountability, trust and professionalism.”
Also one of the speaker’s at the event, a Professor of Criminology at the University of Jos, Etannibi Alemika, said: “There is need for serious police reform in the country, because Nigeria’s citizens are no longer satisfied with the overall conduct and character of policemen in the country.”
He added: “The dream of a reformed police would be unrealistic in an unhealthy political system. Nigerians should now demand education, healthcare, employment and social fulfillment so as to reduce the burden of criticism of the police.”
In his remark, the Executive Director of Cleen Foundation, Gad Peter, said: “Our police force is a critical institution tasked with maintaining law and order, protecting lives and property, and upholding the rule of law. However, in recent times, we have witnessed a growing disconnect between the police and the communities they serve. Issues such as excessive use of force, lack of accountability, and inadequate training have eroded public trust and confidence in our law enforcement agencies.
This engagement is not just a platform to discuss these issues but an opportunity to develop actionable solutions. It is a call to action for comprehensive and sustainable reforms that will transform our police force into a more effective, transparent, and community-oriented service within the context of the southeast.”
(CDA News)
