The Civil Liberties Organisation (CLO), Lagos State branch, has warned that the proposed establishment of state police could be abused by political actors to intimidate, harass and exploit citizens.
The organisation called for strong safeguards, oversight and accountability mechanisms to be established before state police is introduced.
The CLO made its position known at a press conference on the “State of the Nation” held in Lagos, where it also raised concerns about insecurity, the economy and governance.
While acknowledging the need for effective policing to tackle insecurity, the organisation cautioned against placing security institutions under the control of state political authorities without adequate checks and balances.
The CLO cited complaints involving some task force officials in Lagos and officers of the Ogun State Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Corps (TRACE) as examples of the risks associated with unchecked state-controlled enforcement agencies.
It warned that allegations of intimidation, harassment and misconduct involving such agencies could undermine public confidence in state police if similar practices were allowed to continue.
The organisation therefore urged the government to establish clear operational guidelines, oversight structures and accountability mechanisms to prevent state police from becoming an instrument of political persecution.
It also called for measures to protect both citizens and security personnel from political interference and ensure that state police operates professionally and in accordance with the law.
CLO raises concerns over insecurity
On the wider security situation, the CLO expressed concern over the continued spread of kidnapping, banditry, terrorism and other forms of violent crime across the country.
It urged President Bola Tinubu, as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, to take urgent steps to address the worsening security situation.
The organisation acknowledged the efforts of the Federal and state governments, the military, police and other security agencies but said more resources, coordination and commitment were required to effectively protect lives and property.
The CLO also called for tighter surveillance of Nigeria’s borders, particularly in the North-East, North-West and North-Central regions, which it identified as vulnerable routes for the illegal movement of arms and ammunition.
It raised concerns over alleged bribery, inadequate checks and other lapses at some border points, warning that such weaknesses could facilitate arms trafficking and worsen the country’s security challenges.
The organisation also opposed granting amnesty to suspected terrorists or negotiating with them, arguing that individuals involved in criminal activities should instead be properly investigated and prosecuted.
Economic concerns
On the economy, the CLO said Nigerians continued to feel the effects of the removal of fuel subsidies despite government interventions and palliative measures.
It expressed concern over rising food prices, inflation, poverty and the increasing cost of essential goods and services.
The organisation also noted that small and medium-scale enterprises were struggling with low patronage, high operating costs, inflation and multiple taxation.
It urged the government to provide greater support for businesses and introduce measures capable of easing the economic pressure on citizens and enterprises.
