Complementary Role of Private Security Outfits for Enhanced Public Image of Nigeria Police: The Case of the Nigeria Police and Vigilante Group of Nigeria

Abstract

Security of life and property is a fundamental human right guaranteed by the constitution of Nigeria. However; unprecedented crimes of kidnapping, robbery attacks on banks and even churches, assassinations, ritual killings, electoral malpractices, political, religious and ethnic crisis have posed serious challenges to the Nigeria Police. Coupled with this are series of allegations against the Police by the public. However; effective discharge of duties on the part of the Police remains the antidote needed to take care of such negative comments and perception. This work was an attempt at understanding the complementary roles of private security outfits like Vigilante Group towards the provision of services at the community level. Two communities (Okinni in Egbedore and Opa in Ife East Local Government Areas of Osun State) were examined. Qualitative data were collected (from 30 respondents who were selected front the study sites) through in-depth interviews, key informant interviews and telephone survey. The assistance of a contact person was utilised to locate some of the respondents. A very pathetic security situation was noted in the last 17 years by the respondents particularly the predominant cases of armed robbery. Efforts towards addressing this issue include loll’ profile lifestyle and, neighbourhood watch. Findings showed that there have been improvements due to little reforms in the organisational structure of private security outfits like Vigilante Groups. The improvement was noted as reflecting in development and structural transformation of the two study settings. The dynamics of relationship that existed between the Nigeria Police and the private security outfit as well as the challenges being experienced were noted by the respondents and suggestions proffered accordingly.