From our news desk, Benin
The call for convertion of the ethnic militia movement (Vigilantes) across the nation to become State police force to compliment the efforts of the Nigerian Police Force (NPF) in the combat of crime and criminality, has been made.
Prof. Godwin Aondonhemba Vaasen of the Edo State University, Uzairue made the call while delivering the lecture titled: 'Transforming Ethnic Militia Movement To State Police: Towards Combating The Security Challenges In Contemporary Nigeria', at the 9th inaugural lecture series of the University.
Vaasen, a Professor of History and International Studies noted that the Police are an indispensable part of our society who have been doing their best to maintain peace and security in Nigeria.
But despite their efforts, they (Police) are still limited by certain factors in the performance of their duties hence, the call.
"The positive attributes of these militia movements include their occasional control of crime; their services as pressure groups for their communities is crucial for the attainment of peace if properly harnessed, just as their convertion to State Police force will go a long way as an antidote to the security challenges in Nigeria".
Prof. Vaasen, a former lecturer at the Nigerian Police Academy however suggested that the establishment of State Police should have legal backing; because of the fear in some quarters that it could be used by some State Governments to terrorize political opponents.
Also, its operatives should be thouroughly scrutinized and the bad eggs removed, before being converted to State Police force.
He argued that State Police will increase the numerical strength of the regular police force, who are grossly inadequate in Nigeria.
Even as most of the operatives are involved in other duties other than their constitutional primary duty of fighting crime, he added.
Prof. Vaasen further noted that the increasing wave of violent crimes across the country at all levels, and the seeming inability of the police to put the situation in check, gave birth to the existence of ethnic militia movements (vigilante groups) to compliment or support the operations of the Nigerian Police.
"Since the Police seemed to have become ineffective in the tackling of the security challenges; especially the fighting of crime, made people to lose confidence in their ability to effectively protect them against criminals."
The Militia groups are noted to be very familiar with the terrain of their various environments and may effectively be able to dislodge kidnappers and other criminal gangs who may be stranger to the environment, he said.
Continuing, Prof. Vaasen recommended that there should be an increased cooperation between members of the judiciary and the police to effectively fight crime, and take crime fighting to the grassroots level.
The police in the performance of their duties go through a lot of risk, so government should encourage them by giving them a better welfare package to boost their morale such as better salary, retirement benefits, other allowances, barrack accomodation and a better working environment, Prof. Vaasen appealed.
Earlier in his address, the Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof. Emmanuel Aluyor expressed gratitude to the audience gathered, for attending the University lecture saying inaugural lecture hold a special place within the academic community as it marks the beginning of a new era for both the lecturer and the University.
He said the University as a world-class institution is dedicated to providing a condusive environment for learning, fostering intellectual growth and nurturing young minds.
"We aim to produce graduates who are not only academically accomplished, but also equipped with the skills and knowledge to drive positive change in society".
While congratulating the Inaugural lecturer for his well-thought out topic said it was of utmost relevance to the current challenges the nation faces; as it highlights the critical need to addressing security concerns and transforming them into opportunities for progress.
The VC reiterated the University's commitment to support and promote research; as it will continue to provide the necessary resources, infrastructure and encourage scholars to excel in their pursuit of knowledge.
He asserts that it is through the instrumentality of research and academic pursuit, the University strives to transform into a hub of innovation and center of excellence.
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