THE UNPROFESSIONAL BEHAVIOUR OF THE NIGERIA POLICE DURING THE ENDBADGOVERNANCE PROTEST IN ABUJA.
Chapter One: Introduction
1.1 Background of the Study
Protests have long been a medium through which citizens express their dissatisfaction with governance and demand change. In Nigeria, the EndBadGovernance protests, which erupted in 2024, were a response to rampant corruption, poor governance, and economic hardships. These protests garnered significant attention, both locally and internationally, as citizens took to the streets to voice their grievances. However, the response of the Nigeria Police, particularly in Abuja, raised concerns about unprofessional behavior, including excessive use of force, harassment, and unlawful arrests (Channelstv, 2024; Aljazeera, 2024).
The role of law enforcement during protests is crucial in maintaining peace and order while respecting the rights of the demonstrators. International standards, such as those set by the United Nations, emphasize the need for police to act with restraint and professionalism, ensuring the protection of human rights. In the context of the EndBadGovernance protests, numerous reports and eyewitness accounts highlighted instances where the Nigeria Police failed to adhere to these standards. Instead, their actions often escalated tensions and resulted in violence, injuries, and even fatalities (Premium Times, 2024).
The unprofessional conduct of the police during these protests can be attributed to several factors, including inadequate training, lack of accountability, and systemic issues within the police force. The use of excessive force, arbitrary arrests, and intimidation tactics not only undermined the legitimacy of the police but also fueled further public outrage. These actions highlighted the urgent need for police reform and accountability in Nigeria (Punchng, 2024).
This study aims to investigate the unprofessional behavior of the Nigeria Police during the EndBadGovernance protests in Abuja. By examining specific incidents, underlying causes, and the broader implications of such behavior, the study seeks to provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges faced by law enforcement in Nigeria and the urgent need for reform.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
The unprofessional behavior of the Nigeria Police during the EndBadGovernance protests in Abuja presents a significant problem that undermines the principles of democracy and human rights. Reports of excessive force, harassment, and unlawful arrests by the police have raised serious concerns about the conduct and accountability of law enforcement officers. This problem is compounded by systemic issues within the police force, including inadequate training, lack of oversight, and a culture of impunity.
The excessive use of force and intimidation tactics by the police not only violate the rights of peaceful protesters but also escalate tensions, leading to violence and unrest. These actions undermine public trust in law enforcement and erode the legitimacy of the police as an institution. The failure to address these issues perpetuates a cycle of abuse and impunity, hindering efforts to achieve meaningful police reform in Nigeria.
This study seeks to address the following questions: What specific instances of unprofessional behavior were exhibited by the Nigeria Police during the EndBadGovernance protests in Abuja? What are the underlying causes of such behavior? And what are the broader implications for police reform and accountability in Nigeria?
1.3 Objectives of the Study
1.4 Research Questions
1.5 Significance of the Study
This study is significant as it provides a detailed examination of the unprofessional behavior of the Nigeria Police during the EndBadGovernance protests in Abuja. By analyzing specific incidents and underlying causes, the study contributes to a broader understanding of the challenges facing law enforcement in Nigeria. The findings can inform policymakers, law enforcement agencies, and civil society organizations about the urgent need for police reform and the importance of accountability and professionalism in law enforcement.
The study also highlights the impact of police misconduct on public trust and the legitimacy of law enforcement institutions. It underscores the necessity of comprehensive reforms to address systemic issues within the police force, including training, oversight, and accountability mechanisms. Additionally, the study provides insights into best practices for ensuring that law enforcement officers uphold the principles of democracy and human rights, particularly during protests and demonstrations.
1.6 Scope and Delimitation of the Study
The study focuses on the unprofessional behavior of the Nigeria Police during the EndBadGovernance protests in Abuja. It examines specific instances of misconduct, underlying causes, and broader implications for police reform and accountability. The study period covers the protests in 2024, providing a contemporary perspective on the issues at hand. While the findings may have broader implications for other contexts, the scope is limited to Abuja and may not be directly applicable to other regions or countries.
1.7 Operational Definition of Terms
EndBadGovernance Protests: A series of demonstrations in Nigeria aimed at addressing issues of poor governance, corruption, and economic mismanagement.
Nigeria Police: The law enforcement agency responsible for maintaining peace and order in Nigeria.
Unprofessional Behavior: Actions by law enforcement officers that violate professional standards, including excessive use of force, harassment, and unlawful arrests.
Police Reform: Efforts to improve the effectiveness, accountability, and professionalism of law enforcement agencies.
Accountability: The obligation of law enforcement officers to answer for their actions and be held responsible for misconduct
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