HUMAN RIGHTS VIOLATIONS AND POLICE CONDUCT IN NIGERIA: AN EMPIRICAL STUDY OF THE NIGERIAN POLICE IN OGUN STATE

Abstract

This study investigates human rights violations and police conduct in Nigeria, with specific attention to the Nigerian Police in selected local government areas of Ogun State. The study is situated within the broader national concern over rising incidents of police brutality, unlawful arrests, extrajudicial killings, and related abuses that continue to undermine public trust in law enforcement. The population of the study comprised residents of Abeokuta South, Ijebu North, and Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government Areas, totaling 1,200 respondents. A multistage sampling technique was used to select participants, and data were collected through a structured questionnaire designed to capture experiences and perceptions of police activities. The data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics, including frequency counts and simple percentage. Findings reveal widespread human rights violations, notably police brutality, unlawful detention, bribery, extortion, extrajudicial killings, and suppression of peaceful protests. The study further identifies systemic issues such as corruption, political interference, weak enforcement of legal frameworks, poor working conditions, and entrenched impunity as major drivers of police misconduct. The analysis shows that these violations have significantly eroded public trust in the Nigerian Police. The study concludes that persistent human rights abuses are sustained by weak accountability mechanisms and ineffective implementation of reforms. It recommends strengthening legal and institutional frameworks, enforcing disciplinary measures, enhancing human rights training for officers, and establishing independent oversight bodies. Additionally, citizens should be encouraged to report abuses and participate in civic advocacy aimed at promoting transparent and accountable policing practices.