POLICE FORCE OPERATIONS AND FAILED SECURITY SYSTEM IN NIGERIA; A HISTORICAL ANALYSIS

Abstract

The Nigeria Police Force is the primary law enforcement agency in Nigeria, mandated by the constitution to maintain law and order and exercise jurisdiction throughout the country. The force comprises 36 state commands and the Federal Capital Territory. Its core mandate includes protecting the lives and property of citizens, investigating offenses, arresting offenders, detaining and prosecuting individuals or groups suspected of violating the law. Despite its size and constitutional authority, the performance of the Nigeria Police Force has often fallen short of its optimal efficiency. Challenges in combating crime and ensuring security stem from a combination of internal and external factors. Using a historical approach, this paper identifies key inhibitors of police performance, including poor funding, military interventions in governance, inappropriate deployment, corruption, indiscipline, inadequate basic and continuous training, and noncompliance with policy guidelines and constitutional provisions regarding human rights and the rule of law. This study draws on secondary operational documents, gazetted information, and primary research sources to provide a qualitative historical analysis. Based on these findings, the paper concludes with informed recommendations for improving service delivery, enhancing the efficiency of the police, and ensuring the security of lives and property of Nigerian citizens.