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Community Policing and Crime Prevention in Ekiti State: Interrogating the State Police Option

Author

Listed:
  • Falusi Fisayo Samuel

    (Department of Peace and Security Studies, Bamidele Olumilua University of Education Science and Technology, Ikere-Ekiti)

  • Omoyeni Tolulope Julius.

    (Department of Peace and Security Studies, Bamidele Olumilua University of Education Science and Technology, Ikere-Ekiti)

  • Olabamiji Aminat Abiodun

    (Department of Peace and Security Studies, Bamidele Olumilua University of Education Science and Technology, Ikere-Ekiti)

Abstract

In recent years, the rising tide of insecurity in Ekiti State has necessitated a reevaluation of traditional policing methods Despite Ekiti State being relatively peaceful, the recent uptick in crime, particularly kidnappings, mirrors a broader national trend in Nigeria. This study examines the effectiveness of community policing as a strategic response to these emerging security challenges, alongside the ongoing debate on establishing a state police force. Traditionally, policing in Nigeria has been reactive, which has often led to strained relations between the police and the public. The adoption of community policing by the Nigeria Police Force in 2004 marked a shift towards a community-focused approach, aimed at fostering better relationships and proactively addressing crime. Through a comprehensive analysis of crime trends, community engagement practices, and law enforcement dynamics, this research critically evaluates the potential of community policing to enhance local safety and trust. Additionally, it interrogates the debate on the institutionalization of state police within the federal system adopted by Nigeria, exploring the feasibility, advantages, and pitfalls of instituting a state police. Survey method was adopted for this study to generate responses from the 425 respondents randomly selected for this study. Data were analysized using frequency and percentage. Drawing on data generated, the findings demonstrates the symbiotic relationship between community participation and law enforcement efficacy, while the adoption of state police could be beneficial in the long run, its adoption could be counterproductive if abused by power drunk executive governor. This research study therefore recommend a grassroots participation and locally tailored policing frameworks that can significantly contribute to crime prevention and truly reflect the police mantra in Nigeria “police is your friend†that could bolster Ekiti State’s security architecture, promoting sustainable peace and development amidst rising security concerns. The Implementation of a national pilot state police program in select states across Nigeria will go a long way in testing the feasibility of National implementation of state police in addressing contemporary security challenges in Ekiti State and Nigeria in general.

Suggested Citation

  • Falusi Fisayo Samuel & Omoyeni Tolulope Julius. & Olabamiji Aminat Abiodun, 2024. "Community Policing and Crime Prevention in Ekiti State: Interrogating the State Police Option," International Journal of Research and Scientific Innovation, International Journal of Research and Scientific Innovation (IJRSI), vol. 11(7), pages 630-642, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:bjc:journl:v:11:y:2024:i:7:p:630-642
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Saidu, Badamasi & Rasheed, Zuwaira Haruna & Ahmad Zakuan, Ummu Atiyah Binti & Haji Yusoff, Kamarul Zaman Bin, 2019. "Restructuring and the Dilemma of State Police in Nigeria: to Be or Not to Be?," Journal of Business and Social Review in Emerging Economies, CSRC Publishing, Center for Sustainability Research and Consultancy Pakistan, vol. 5(1), pages 41-50, June.
    2. David Weisburd & John E. Eck, 2004. "What Can Police Do to Reduce Crime, Disorder, and Fear?," The ANNALS of the American Academy of Political and Social Science, , vol. 593(1), pages 42-65, May.
    3. Tom R. Tyler, 2004. "Enhancing Police Legitimacy," The ANNALS of the American Academy of Political and Social Science, , vol. 593(1), pages 84-99, May.
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    Cited by:

    1. Alvin M. Tamayo, 2025. "Trust and Perceived Safety in Relation to Satisfaction with Police Services," International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science, International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS), vol. 9(6), pages 1359-1371, June.

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