BRYMO'S TAKE

Nigeria’s policing system faces numerous challenges, including ineffective crime investigation and prosecution. These issues often result in criminals going unpunished due to lack of evidence or inadequate prosecution efforts. Some Nigerians believe that establishing state (sub-national) police forces could solve these problems. However, my experience in the United States has shown me that effective policing relies heavily on robust intelligence gathering and active citizen cooperation.

In the United States, the police system is diligent and thorough. One of the key elements of its effectiveness is the reliance on intelligence gathering. The success of intelligence gathering in the U.S. stems from the willingness of citizens to assist detectives and police by providing valuable information. This cooperation helps unravel criminal activities and enhances overall security. Consequently, a country’s policing system is only as effective as its citizens’ willingness to share information with law enforcement.

Security is a collective responsibility in the U.S. Americans take security seriously and do not hesitate to report suspicious activities or security breaches. They provide information voluntarily, without coercion. In contrast, Nigerian authorities often struggle to obtain information from the public. Sometimes, the government offers substantial rewards to encourage citizens to come forward with information. This reluctance to share information stems from a lack of trust in the police’s ability to protect informants’ identities and ensure their safety.

Nigerians often fear for their lives when considering providing information to authorities. This fear is justified, as the preservation of informants’ identities is not always guaranteed. To address this, Nigeria needs to establish stronger mechanisms to protect those who come forward with information. In the U.S., the confidentiality of informants is taken seriously, which encourages more people to assist the police without fear of retribution.

In the U.S., after a crime is committed, citizens willingly come forward to provide information, often without being asked by the police. They assist in investigations, and there are severe penalties for providing false information. This cooperation extends to providing unreserved access to CCTV footage and other evidence. Friends and families of suspects are also more likely to cooperate with law enforcement, unlike in Nigeria, where there is often a tendency to protect the suspect.

On the national stage in Nigeria, issues of race, ethnicity, and religion significantly impact the effectiveness of policing. Ethnic and religious biases affect people’s judgment and willingness to cooperate with law enforcement. Politicians who commit economic and financial crimes often receive protection from their kinsmen, despite the harm they cause to their communities. This “us versus them” mentality undermines justice and hampers effective policing.

Nigerians have much to learn from Americans regarding creating a secure society. Before clamoring for state police, Nigerians should focus on fostering a culture of cooperation with law enforcement. This involves:

• Encouraging citizens to report suspicious activities without fear of retribution.
• Strengthening mechanisms to protect informants’ identities.
• Promoting community cooperation in crime investigations.
• Reducing ethnic and religious biases that hinder justice.

By adopting these practices, Nigeria can build a more effective policing system that ensures criminals are prosecuted and communities are safer. Addressing these foundational issues is crucial before considering the establishment of state police forces. By understanding and implementing these lessons, Nigeria can move towards a more secure and just society, where the police and citizens work together to maintain law and order.