Amotekun: A Regional Response to Nigeria's Police Crisis

The article by Azu Ishiekwene highlights the creation of Amotekun in January 2020 by six states in Nigeria's South West Zone as a response to social issues affecting the region. It critiques the historical context of Nigeria's police structure, tracing its dysfunction back to the 1966 military coups that centralized power and distorted the federal police system.

The author notes that the federal police have become increasingly reliant on central authority, leading to a lack of regional autonomy and effectiveness. Comparisons are drawn with police systems in the United States, Canada, and India, which maintain a balance between federal and state responsibilities.

The article emphasizes the need for a review of Nigeria's police system to adapt to contemporary realities, as the current structure has failed to address rising challenges such as terrorism, banditry, and organized crime. The ongoing rivalry between state governors and the federal police further complicates the situation, highlighting the urgent need for reform.