Allowing parallel law enforcement institutions will escalate insecurity – Group to Tinubu, DSS, Police

A rights group in Oyo State has warned the federal government and Nigeria Police Force against allowing any individual or group to establish parallel law enforcement institutions within the country. VOHRI, a human rights initiative, expressed concern that such actions could exacerbate insecurity in the nation. The group warned against the recent incident in Ibadan, where Sunday Adeyemo, also known as Sunday Igboho, allegedly obstructed policemen from arresting a suspect.

Oladimeji Adelakin, the Public Relations Officer of VOHRI, cautioned that no party should be allowed to operate as a parallel law enforcement entity or decide who lives or dies without lawful authority and due judicial process. He advised citizens to report suspected criminal activities to the appropriate security agencies instead of taking matters into their own hands.

Adelakin emphasized that every Nigerian has the right to voice their concerns about insecurity and seek protection for their communities. However, he stressed that the responsibility for investigation, arrest, and prosecution falls on constitutionally and legally authorized security institutions such as the Police and DSS.

Adelakin stressed that any attempt by private individuals, vigilante groups, militias, security networks, or other non-state actors to assume the powers of the Nigeria Police Force or obstruct lawful police operations would require an urgent investigation by the appropriate authorities. He also expressed concern over allegations that police officers were obstructed while attempting to execute a lawful arrest against Taa’ni Ọlọhun by individuals associated with the Iru-Ẹkun Security Network.

If found to be true, such conduct could undermine the authority of law-enforcement agencies and the rule of law.

VOHRI called for an impartial investigation into these allegations and, if offenses are established, urged security agencies to take appropriate action in line with due process and applicable Nigerian law. The group emphasized the need to end unlawful parallel law-enforcement activities and interference with the constitutional duties of the Nigeria Police Force and other authorized security agencies. They urged respect for Nigeria’s constitutional order and national unity.