Human rights activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, has called for reforms in Nigeria’s policing system, suggesting that the structure and orientation of the country’s police institution need significant changes to better serve citizens.
Sowore made the remarks during an interview on Channels Television, where he spoke about the history and operational approach of the Nigeria Police Force. According to him, several reforms introduced over the years have not fundamentally addressed the issues surrounding the conduct and perception of the police in the country.
Introducing the extract from the interview, Sowore argued that the culture within the police institution has been shaped by transformations that did not necessarily promote professional policing. He suggested that the agency’s structure and even its name reflect a forceful approach rather than a service-oriented system focused on public safety and community relations.
“The point I’m making is that they have had all these transformation that weren’t cool or nice. It wasn’t policing. It’s part of the reason why I said maybe part of what needs to change is to remove the force from the police and call it the Nigerian police service or Police department because I think the force makes them think that they are enemies of the People. That they are at war with the civilian populace,” Sowore said.
He explained that renaming the institution could be part of a broader effort to shift its philosophy from force to service, emphasizing professionalism, accountability, and improved relationships between officers and the public.
Calls for police reform have intensified in Nigeria in recent years, particularly following nationwide protests and debates about accountability within law enforcement agencies. Analysts say discussions around structural reforms, training, and community policing remain central to efforts aimed at improving public trust.See_More…