Police: Focusing on Constructive Engagement over Repression
The recent arrest and subsequent transfer of 76 suspects, including a foreigner, for allegedly flying Russian flags during the nationwide hunger protest in Kano State have raised significant concerns about the approach being taken by the Nigeria Police Force.
While the protests led to unfortunate incidents of violence and destruction, it is crucial to recognize that these actions were driven by deep-seated frustrations and legitimate grievances of the Nigerian people.
The protests were not just about flying flags; they were a desperate cry for change in the face of widespread hardship.
The core issues that fueled these protests—rising hunger, exorbitant fuel prices, and the lack of meaningful opportunities for the youth—remain unresolved. The energy and resources currently being directed towards prosecuting citizens for sedition would be better spent addressing the root causes of the unrest.
It is imperative that the police, as protectors of the people, shift their focus from punitive measures to constructive engagement and development.
1. Recognizing the Context: The nationwide protests were a manifestation of the profound struggles many Nigerians face daily. The soaring cost of living, particularly the high price of fuel, has left many families in dire straits. The absence of effective youth empowerment schemes has further exacerbated feelings of hopelessness among the younger population. These issues, compounded by the lack of visible progress or relief from the government, have driven citizens to the streets in protest. It is important to understand that these protests were not mere acts of defiance, but rather a plea for survival and a demand for a better life.
2. Rethinking the Approach: The Nigeria Police Force must reconsider its current strategy of prosecuting citizens for expressing their frustrations. Charging individuals with sedition for flying Russian flags or for participating in protests risks deepening the divide between the government and the people. Instead of viewing these actions as threats to national security, the police should see them as an opportunity to understand the people’s grievances and work towards addressing them. The expression of dissent, even in unconventional forms, is a fundamental aspect of democracy and should be treated with the respect it deserves.
3. Focusing on Development and Engagement: Rather than expending resources on punitive actions, the police should channel their efforts towards initiatives that can positively impact the lives of the citizens. This includes advocating for and supporting government policies that address the root causes of the protests, such as hunger, unemployment, and access to affordable fuel. The police can play a vital role in bridging the gap between the government and the people by facilitating dialogue, understanding, and cooperation.
Furthermore, community policing initiatives should be strengthened to create a closer bond between the police and the communities they serve. By engaging with citizens on a more personal level, the police can gain valuable insights into the challenges they face and work collaboratively to find solutions. This approach not only helps to maintain peace and order but also fosters trust and goodwill between the police and the public.
4. Emphasizing Rehabilitation Over Repression: For those who were involved in acts of violence or other criminal activities during the protests, the focus should be on rehabilitation rather than punishment. Many of these individuals are likely victims of the very socioeconomic conditions that prompted the protests. Instead of prosecuting them, the police and government should explore programs that provide education, vocational training, and employment opportunities. By investing in the development of these individuals, the state can transform potential sources of unrest into productive members of society.
5. Upholding the Right to Free Expression: It is essential to uphold the constitutional right of Nigerians to express their opinions, even if those opinions are critical of the government. The act of flying a flag, regardless of its symbolism, should not be grounds for prosecution. The police must ensure that they do not stifle free speech or discourage citizens from voicing their concerns. Instead, they should protect these rights while encouraging constructive dialogue and peaceful expression.
CSR REPORTERS notes the challenges Nigeria faces are immense, and the frustration of its citizens is palpable. However, the solution lies not in repression but in engagement, understanding, and development. The Nigeria Police Force has a crucial role to play in this process.
By shifting their focus from punitive measures to constructive actions, the police can help to build a society where the needs and voices of all citizens are heard and addressed. The energy being dissipated on prosecutions should be redirected towards building a better, more inclusive Nigeria—one where every citizen has the opportunity to thrive.
