By Okechukwu Nwanguma
The recent surge in police brutality and human rights violations across Nigeria is alarming and demands urgent attention. Several incidents highlight the grave concerns surrounding law enforcement agencies’ actions:
- *RRS Conduct in Aba*
Reports indicate that operatives of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) in Aba, Abia State, are involved in harassment and extortion, raising significant alarm about their abusive practices towards innocent citizens.
- *Invasion of a Family*
An alarming incident occurred when the Anti-Kidnapping Unit invaded a family’s home in Aba, reflecting a pattern of aggressive and unlawful actions against civilians.
- *Student Fatality*
The tragic killing of a student inside his father’s car while on his way to a WAEC exam underscores the potential fatal consequences of unchecked police violence.
- *Abduction of Community Leader*
The abduction of a community leader from his Lagos residence by the Tiger Base in Owerri over a traditional ruler dispute highlights police involvement in local disputes.
- *Kidnapping of Dr. Febian Ihekwueme*
The forced abduction of Dr. Febian Ihekwueme from Abuja to Tiger Base in Owerri in November 2024 raises serious concerns about unlawful police actions.
- *Nonso Kwa’s Abduction*
Before Dr. Ihekwueme’s case, Nonso Kwa was also abducted by the Tiger Base, detained for days, and subsequently charged with frivolous allegations before being granted a court bail.
- *Detention of Igboayaka O Igboayaka*
The abduction of Igboayaka O Igboayaka, President of Ohaneze Youth Congress, underscores the repression of voices representing community interests.
- *Arbitrary Arrests*
Numerous police units have engaged in “abduction-style” arrests, exhibiting a blatant disregard for due process and citizens’ rights.
- *Whistleblower’s Arrest*
The arrest of journalist Mazi Obinna Oparaku, who revealed information about a political case, highlights the chilling effect on press freedom and the safety of whistleblowers.
These incidents collectively indicate a systemic issue within law enforcement, characterised by a lack of accountability and a culture of impunity. It appears that lessons from the nationwide EndSARS protests in 2020, fueled by rampant police brutality, have not been heeded.
Immediate action must be taken to investigate these abuses, secure justice for victims, and restore public trust in the police. We call upon civil society, government officials, and human rights organisations to advocate for significant reforms in Nigeria’s policing system.
It is crucial that police operatives are held accountable, and a clear framework is established to address grievances against law enforcement.
Relevant authorities must prioritise the protection of human rights and the establishment of a just legal system.
Mr Okechukwu Nwanguma is the Executive Director of the Rule Of Law Accountability and Advocacy Centre (RULAAC) in Nigeria.
