Prof. Godwin Aondohemba Vaasen of Edo State University Uzairue has recommended the use of ethnic militia movement as states police in order to compliment the efforts of the Nigerian Police Force (NPF).
Prof. Vaasen made the recommendation while delivery an Inaugural Lecture of the Edo State University, Uzairue titled: ‘Transforming Ethnic Militia Movement to State Police: Towards Combating the Security Challenges in Contemporary Nigeria.’
The Professor of History and International Studies said the police are an indispensable part the society, adding that they have been doing their best to maintain peace and security in Nigeria.
He added that despite their efforts, they (police) are still limited by certain factors in the performance of their duties hence, the call for the use of ethnic militia movement to compliment their efforts.
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“The positive attributes of these militia movement including their occasioned control of crime and their services as pressure groups for their communities is crucial for the attainment of peace if properly tackled, as their use as states police force will go a long way and as an antidote to the security challenges in Nigeria”.
Prof. Vaasen, a former lecturer at the Nigerian Police Academy however stated that due to the possibility of some state governments misusing the state police to perhaps intimidate their political opponents, legal backing should be sought before their establishment.
He stressed the need for those to be used as state police to be scrutinized with a viewing to flushing out the “bad eggs” among them.
He said the establishment of the state police will increase the numerical strength of the force, who, according to him, are inadequate.
According to him, some ethnic militia movement were formed as a result of the rising tide of violent crimes in the country and the seeming inability of the police to control the situation.
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The professor further stated that the militia groups are very familiar with the terrain of their various environments and may effectively be able to dislodge kidnappers and other criminals who may not be familiar with the environment.
He, however, Prof. Vaasen recommended increased cooperation between members of the judiciary and the police in order to judiciously fight crime and take crime fighting to the grassroots level.
Earlier in his address, the Vice Chancellor of the university, Prof. Emmanuel Aluyor said the Inaugural Lecture hold a special place within academic community as they mark the beginning of a new era for both the lecturer and the university.
He said the university is dedicated to providing a conducive environment for learning, fostering intellectual growth and nurturing young minds.
“We aim to produce graduates who are not only academically accomplished but also equipped with the skills and knowledge to drive positive charge in society”.
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While congratulating the lecturer for his well-thought out topic, he said it’s of utmost relevance to the current challenges the nation faces as it highlights the critical need to address security concerns and transform them into opportunities for progress.
The VC reiterated the university’s commitment to supporting and promoting research, adding that the university will continue to provide the necessary resources, infrastructure and encourage scholars to excel in their pursuit of knowledge.
