Urging The Police And Other Security Agents To Uphold Professionalism Amidst Ongoing Protests, by Isaac Asabor

In the delicate dance between law enforcement and peaceful protesters, the role of police officers is pivotal. Their actions can either preserve the tranquility of demonstrations or ignite a powder keg of tension.

The reason for the foregoing viewpoint cannot be farfetched as overzealous policemen and other security agents often exacerbate tensions during protests, especially when incidents result in fatalities or injuries. Their aggressive behavior can provoke demonstrators, pushing them toward retaliatory actions. When a protester is harmed or killed, emotions run high, and the actions of security personnel can either defuse or escalate the situation. Unfortunately, instances of excessive force, brutality, and disregard for human rights have fueled anger and mistrust between protesters and law enforcement.

Therefore, given the backdrop of the foregoing view, it is expedient for the Police and other security agents to be professional enough in the course of discharging their duties, particularly in the ongoing Hunger Protests across Nigeria so as to prevent the nationwide protests from becoming violent. In fact, it is crucial that security agents approach their duties with professionalism and restraint.

As it is assumed in this context that the police and other security agents might have undergone training programs, it is expected that at this crucial moment that they should emphasize de-escalation techniques, empathy, and respect for citizens’ rights in the course of discharging their duties in the ongoing protests. This is as transparent investigations into any misconduct or abuse are essential. By fostering a culture of accountability and emphasizing community policing, security agencies can build trust and reduce the likelihood of confrontations. Ultimately, a commitment to professionalism and adherence to human rights principles can help maintain peace and prevent unnecessary violence during demonstrations.

At this juncture, it is germane to opine that while officers exhibit high sense of professionalism, prioritize de-escalation techniques over force, they should equally engage in verbal communication with empathy, and understanding as they can defuse volatile situations.

In fact, as long as the protests prevail, specifically till August 10, 2024, the police and other security officials should be transparent while communicating with the protesters across the country, given the fact that clear communication about intentions, rules, and expectations fosters trust. Without a doubt, transparency helps prevent misunderstandings and minimizes the risk of clashes.

Analyzed from the angle of accountability, law enforcement agencies must be accountable for their actions, and body cameras (if equipped with), independent oversight, and swift investigations into misconduct are essential.

Again, building positive relationships with the community is crucial. Officers should actively engage with protesters, listen to their concerns, and address grievances, and they should remember that professionalism is not just a badge, it is a commitment to safeguarding democracy and ensuring that peaceful voices resonate louder than chaos.

In a similar vein, when security officials listen to advice, they gain access to diverse perspectives and insights. People offer advice with good intentions, hoping to contribute positively. By dismissing advice outright, security officials risk missing valuable ideas and information.

Again, the police and other security officials should throughout this protests listen, demonstrate respect for others’ opinions and expertise. This is as such professional conduct fosters trust and encourages open communication. In fact, when people feel heard, they are more likely to engage constructively.

Good enough, the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has urged police officers to be prepared, alert and professional during the protests scheduled for August 1 to 10, and added that the safety and security of the nation depends on the vigilance, gallantry, and readiness of officers in the police and other security agencies.

According to a statement on Wednesday, July 31, 2024, by the Force Public Relations Officer, Muyiwa Adejobi, the IG spoke during a virtual meeting with senior officers. However, one hopes the IGP has in the same vein literarily drew the ears of his men, and urge them not to provoke the protesters by being overzealous and unprofessional in the cause of discharging their duties.

At this juncture, it is expedient for this writer to confess that what inspired him to express this view is the violent experience that characterized the #EndSARS. It will be recalled in this context that the movement, which began as a call for the disbandment of Nigeria’s notorious Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), gained momentum in 2020. The protests were fueled by allegations of violence, exploitation, and human rights violations perpetrated by SARS officials.

However, despite the peaceful atmosphere which initially characterized the protests, it is no more news that along the line that law enforcement agents provoked the protesters, and the protests expectedly turned violent leaving on its trail across the country tears, blood and massive destruction of government infrastructures. To aptly put it, the aftermath has been disappointing. At least 15 protesters arrested during the #EndSARS protests remain arbitrarily detained without trial in Lagos, with trumped-up charges ranging from theft to murder. The unprofessionalism exhibited by the police during the protests exacerbated the situation, perpetuating a travesty of justice. Therefore, no sane Nigerian would want what happened during the #EndSARS to repeat itself in the ongoing hunger protests. Therefore, the police and other law enforcement agencies should be well guided.

In fact, the impact of #EndSARS is fading, and police brutality is once again becoming a grim reality for Nigerians. Recent cases of extrajudicial killings and extortion highlight that the police are failing to uphold international human rights standards. The protesters’ demands for justice and accountability remain unmet, and the unprofessional conduct of law enforcement during the protests has only worsened the situation.

Given the foregoing, it is germane to opine that it is crucial for law enforcement to approach protests with restraint and peaceful dialogue. This is as violence begets violence, and a measured response can prevent further escalation, fostering an environment where grievances can be addressed constructively.