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A collective of retired generals, Deputy Inspectors-General of Police (DIGs), and other security experts are linking Nigeria’s prevailing insecurity challenges to corruption.
These seasoned professionals are urging for a holistic strategy that encompasses cooperation between citizens, security agencies, and the government to address the current security issues.
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Additionally, they are voicing their endorsement for the creation of state police as a key component of the solution to the nation’s security woes.
One prominent voice in this coalition is Brigadier-General Idada Ikponmwen, a former Provost Marshal of the Nigerian Army. He emphasizes the detrimental impact of corruption on the country’s security landscape, calling for coordinated efforts among various sectors.
Ikponmwen stresses the need for synergy between the people, security agencies, and the government, highlighting that eradicating corruption or minimizing its prevalence is crucial for effective governance.
David ikponmwen also raises concerns about the lack of proper security structures, manpower, motivation, and collaboration between the public and security agencies. He emphasizes that a concerted effort is required to address corruption, which has been a persistent challenge across successive governments.
Ikponmwen points out that corruption extends to various facets, including the embezzlement of funds and the inadequate equipping and motivation of security agencies, contributing to their inefficiency.
Other retired security experts joining the discourse include UK-trained security expert HRM King Bubaraye Dakolo, Agada IV, the Ibenanaowei of Ekpetiama Kingdom, Bayelsa State; Chief Emma Ejiofor, a former Director of the Department of State Services (DSS); Rekpene Bassey, a security expert and former Security Adviser to ex-Governor Liyel Imoke of Cross River State; Barrister Taiwo Lakano; Azubuko Udah, a retired Deputy Inspector General of Police; and DIG Udom Ekpoudom, retired. Their collective insights converge on the need for a multifaceted approach to tackling Nigeria’s security challenges.
Ikponmwen, in particular, questions the commitment and willpower of successive governments to address security problems effectively. He criticizes the lack of proper coordination, inadequate resources, and the prevailing culture of corruption within security agencies.
Drawing attention to historical instances of security lapses, he underscores the urgency of a dedicated government determined to prioritize the security of its citizens.
King Bubaraye Dakolo reinforces the importance of a well-equipped and trained police force, emphasizing that the police should be adequately remunerated to deter corruption within their ranks.
Dakolo highlights economic reforms and equitable resource distribution, particularly in the Niger Delta, as essential measures to alleviate the root causes of insecurity.
Emma Ejiofor stresses the need for merit-based appointments in security agencies, emphasizing that political, religious, and tribal considerations should not influence such appointments.
He calls for improved incentives, salaries, and inter-agency collaboration to enhance the overall effectiveness of security operations.
As the discourse expands, there is a consensus among these experts that addressing corruption, investing in intelligence gathering, enhancing logistics and equipment for security personnel, and establishing state police are critical components of a comprehensive strategy to improve Nigeria’s security landscape.
They collectively advocate for a proactive and committed government that prioritizes the welfare of security personnel and collaborates with the populace to tackle the multifaceted challenges posed by insurgency, banditry, and other forms of criminality.
Likewise, retired Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Adeleye Oyebade, emphasizing the need for broad involvement, stated, “There was a time when we participated in a course, a typical national assignment focusing on policy and strategic studies. We were tasked with researching ways to strengthen Nigeria’s security framework. The resulting study is comprehensive and contains the necessary strategies for significantly reducing crime. It outlines policy options that are already presented in the document.”
Reflecting on the dynamic nature of crime and its growth with societal development, Oyebade underscores the importance of community policing. He advocates for tailored strategies addressing distinct security challenges in various regions, asserting that community policing is a key solution.
Retired DIG Innocent Nwobodo stresses the significance of collaboration and cooperation among security agencies. He highlights the multiplier effect of synergy among different government levels, impacting the military, police, state security services, and overall security. Nwobodo urges agencies to work together, emphasizing that a secure and freely interactive Nigeria would benefit the country economically.
He calls for the effective use of technology, particularly leveraging science, technology, and innovation (STI) to combat insecurity. Nwobodo proposes the establishment of a joint unit involving all security agencies with drones and unmanned aerial vehicles to monitor forests and ungoverned areas.
Nwobodo also raises concerns about the utilization of the Police Trust Fund, urging transparency and effective deployment of funds for training, logistics, and the welfare of police personnel. He emphasizes the need to restore communities taken over by bandits and expel criminals, bandits, and terrorists.
Retired DIG Taiwo Lakano underscores the necessity for perfect security measures and intelligence gathering. He emphasizes the importance of a robust intelligence team involving agencies like the Department of State Services (DS), Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), and Central Intelligence Agency (CIA). Lakano stresses the need for well-equipped police forces, highlighting the role of technology, equipment, and adequate recruitment.
In summary, these retired security experts emphasize the importance of community policing, collaboration among security agencies, technology utilization, and the welfare and training of security personnel in addressing Nigeria’s security challenges.
