Two rights groups, Citizens Centre for Integrated Development and Social Rights (CCIDESOR), in partnership with International Alert, have called for further reform of the Nigeria Police Force to address insecurity and rebuild citizens’ confidence.
They stressed the need to strengthen community-police relations through mutual accountability, transparency, and improved communication.After engaging with police authorities, traditional rulers, residents, and civil society organisations across several states, the groups outlined measures to promote Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), discourage mob justice, enforce discipline within the force, and eradicate extortion and brutality.
In a statement issued at the weekend, the Executive Director of CCIDESOR and immediate past Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) of Enugu, Dr Emeka Ononamadu, said the relationship between the police and the communities they serve remains strained due to deep-rooted mistrust, poor communication, and a perceived lack of accountability.
The groups recommended sustained and visible disciplinary measures, alongside a responsive and transparent approach by police authorities, to improve public perception and confidence in the force.
They proposed institutionalising Mutual Accountability Forums in all states and local governments to continuously address citizen-police concerns and foster trust grounded in discipline.
To enhance police-public relations, the groups urged improved internal communication, transparency, and regular briefings with community leaders and traditional institutions.
They also stressed the need to end transactional policing, ban informal payments, enforce the “bail is free” policy, and enhance training on human rights, community relations, and conflict-sensitive policing.
The groups further recommended the use of ADR for minor offences, continued posting of new police recruits to their home local councils, adequate resourcing of community-police communication and accountability mechanisms, and prioritisation of lawful and people-centred policing in ongoing reform efforts.
