Activist I.D. Ijele Calls for Community Policing in Nigeria

Activist I.D. Ijele stated that the deteriorating security architecture in Nigeria is the primary reason for the persistent killings across the country, particularly in Plateau State.

During an appearance on TVC's "Political Tonight" program hosted by Olajumok Olatunji, Ijele criticized the government's indifference to implementing community policing, which he described as a core obstacle to resolving national security challenges. He noted that attacks often occur in remote areas where conventional security forces cannot effectively operate.

Ijele proposed empowering community leaders to train capable youth to defend against bandits, arguing that local youth are better positioned to identify threats. He dismissed concerns about potential extrajudicial killings, asserting that proper training and collaboration with government security operations could prevent abuses.

Ijele also highlighted the ineffectiveness of state policing, which he claimed serves political interests rather than the community. He called on President Bola Tinubu to summon security chiefs to work closely with local youth and arm them to combat banditry effectively.