Nigeria Police: A call for reform, openness, and accountability

By Ezenwa Nwagwu

I would like to begin this discussion with a truth every Nigerian knows: our police officers operate under extremely difficult conditions. From poor housing and inadequate equipment to delayed salaries and allowances, the system has failed those we rely on to protect us. There are even claims that police officers often pay for their own uniforms.

This is why civil society groups, activists, and ordinary citizens alike have consistently called for increased funding for the police—not just to enhance national security, but to improve the welfare of the men and women in uniform.

Recently, the calls for increased welfare for personnel of the Nigerian Police have grown louder, and we have seen government efforts in attempting to increase budgetary allocation.

However, as we demand more resources for our security forces, we must also insist that the leadership of the Police operates with transparency, accountability and prudent management of lean resources.

That is why recent reports circulating on the social media alleging the misappropriation of ₦234 billion within the Nigeria Police Force have sparked deep concern. It’s not in our place to interrogate the motives of the whistleblowers. However, as Civil society, we can demand for explanation from the Police authority.

Rather than jump to conclusions, we took a lawful step: we submitted a Freedom of Information (FOI) request to the Inspector-General of Police, seeking clarity on how in God’s name this enormous sum was spent—reportedly on police uniforms, renovation of barracks, and other critical expenditures.

Our request was simple and civic-minded. We did not accuse anyone of wrongdoing. We merely asked if these allegations are true: How were the funds used? Where is the documentation? Were proper procedures followed?

While waiting for answers, it appears that the tactics is to engage in smear campaigns and veiled intimidation to discredit those asking legitimate questions. This tactics is not only disappointing—it is dangerous. It undermines the principles of accountability and transparency that are essential to democratic governance.

Let’s be clear: seeking transparency is not a threat to national security afterall weare often reminded that security is everyone’s business. In fact, it is a prerequisite for building a credible and effective police force.

At the heart of our concern are serious allegations that demand independent investigation. For instance, there are claims that a ₦6 billion contract for police uniforms was split into 66 smaller contracts, all allegedly awarded to a single company—Crown Natures Nigeria Plc—in what appears to be an effort to bypass public procurement thresholds. This, despite prior budgetary allocations for the same purpose.

There are also troubling reports of major police barracks and land assets in Abuja, Lagos, and Kano being sold or ceded without proper approval from relevant authorities, including the Federal Executive Council. If these claims are true, they do not just raise questions of financial misconduct—they pose risks to national security.

We have since petitioned the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offenses Commission (ICPC), urging a thorough and independent probe. These efforts are not aimed at undermining the police. On the contrary, they are meant to uphold the integrity of the institution and restore public trust.

Security is not just about boots on the ground. It is about trust. Public trust , It is about systems that work. It is about public institutions that are accountable to the people they serve.

Let it be known: we will not be silenced. Civil society has a duty to ask questions, demand accountability, and ensure that public funds serve the public good.

Nigeria deserves a police force that is not only well-funded and well-equipped but also beyond reproach. Reform is possible—but only if it begins with openness, not threats; with facts, not fear.

Ezenwa Nwagwu is the Executive Director,
Peering Advocacy and Advancement Center in Africa