A rights group in Oyo State has asked the federal government and the Nigeria Police Force not to allow any individual or group to form parallel law enforcement institutions in the country.
The Vocalpoint Human Rights Initiative, VOHRI, warned that such a move could further escalate insecurity in the country.
The group made the call while addressing a press conference in Ibadan on Wednesday.
The call followed a recent development in the state, where Sunday Adeyemo, also known as Sunday Igboho, and his men allegedly obstructed some policemen from arresting a suspect in Ibadan.
VOHRI, however, expressed grave concern over the incident involving Iru-Ẹkun Security Network led by Igboho and the alleged obstruction of law-enforcement agents.
Public Relations Officer of the organisation, Oladimeji Adelakin, at the press conference, noted that no individual or group should be permitted to operate as a parallel law enforcement institution or determine who should live or die without lawful authority and due judicial process.
He advised citizens who have information about suspected criminal activities to report such to the appropriate security agencies rather than taking the law into their own hands.
Adelakin insisted that every citizen has the right to express concern about insecurity and demand protection for communities but explained that the responsibility for investigation, arrest and prosecution rests with constitutionally and legally authorised security institutions such as the Police and DSS.
Adelakin said, “Any attempt by a private individual, vigilante group, militia, security network or other non-state actor to assume the powers of the Nigeria Police Force or otherwise obstruct lawful police operations is a matter that requires urgent investigation by the appropriate authorities.
“VOHRI is equally concerned by allegations that police officers attempting to execute a lawful arrest process against Taa’ni Ọlọhun were allegedly obstructed by individuals associated with the Iru-Ẹkun Security Network. If established after proper investigation, such conduct could undermine the authority of law-enforcement agencies and the rule of law.
“VOHRI therefore calls on all security agencies to investigate these allegations impartially and, where offences are established, take appropriate action in accordance with due process and applicable Nigerian law.
“We call for an end to unlawful parallel law-enforcement activities and any interference with the constitutional duties of the Nigeria Police Force and other authorised security agencies. Respect for Nigeria’s constitutional order and national unity.”