Community Policing and Security Issues in Nigeria: A Study of Local Vigilante Operations in the South-East Region (2019–2023)

Abstract

The persistent inefficiency and shortcomings of the Nigeria Police Force and other state security apparatuses in safeguarding lives and property, particularly at the grassroots level have prompted the emergence and reliance on local vigilante groups across the country, including in the South-East region. This study investigates the role of community policing in addressing Nigeria’s security challenges, with a particular emphasis on the activities and contributions of vigilante groups in the South-East geopolitical zone between 2019 and 2023. Guided by deterrence theory, as conceptualized by early utilitarian thinkers Cesare Beccaria and Jeremy Bentham, the research explores how the threat or application of punitive measures influences criminal behavior. The study utilizes qualitative data collected through semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders such as community leaders, law enforcement personnel, and members of vigilante organizations. The findings indicate that while community-based security structures, such as vigilante groups, have been instrumental in curbing various security threats including armed robbery, kidnapping, cult-related violence, herdsmen incursions, and communal unrest their overall effectiveness remains constrained. Key limitations include insufficient training and financial support, poor collaboration with formal security agencies, and undue political interference. The paper concludes that despite these challenges, local vigilante groups hold considerable promise for enhancing public safety in the South-East. It recommends targeted interventions, including improved training, adequate funding, and proper equipping of these groups, to bolster their capacity to function as effective instruments of community policing in the region.