Group wants increased staffing for security agencies to combat banditry

A non-governmental organisation, CLEEN Foundation, has called for an increased workforce for security agencies to fight against insecurity in the country.
CLEEN, in collaboration with the MacArthur Foundation, made the call at a two-day workshop in Asaba, the Delta State capital, attended by members of various security agencies.

Speaking on the theme ‘Citizens’ Engagement on Policing Reforms’, CLEEN’s programme officer, Mr Nnamdi Odo, said the workshop provides a platform for citizens to engage with security agencies in advocacy for reforms that would improve policing.

He lamented the decay in the police force, stressing that the foundation has pushed for total reform to improve the country’s sorry state of policing. He said: “If we can get the police right, then we can also get the country right because the politicians are using them (the police) to suffocate the citizens.”

Sonia Unobunjo, chairperson of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Delta State chapter, applauded the CLEEN Foundation for advocating stronger laws, which she said “is paving the way for a more secure and equitable society for all.”

She said the foundation stands on access to justice for those in need, regardless of their background or circumstances, and is a beacon of hope for many who seek fairness and equity.

According to her, the initiative is a good omen because it will not only “provide legal assistance but also stand up for the rights and dignity of every individual”.

The chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association, Asaba Branch, Precious Nwadimuya, who spoke through Chinasa Ezugwu, tasked the police with promoting the rule of law while carrying out their operations to avoid civil unrest.