Rights activist and lawyer, Barr. Chukwudi Ezeobika, has sounded the alarm over the unchecked rise of vigilante groups in Nigeria, warning that their growing influence signals state failure and a collapsing police force.
Reacting to recent attacks on NYSC members in Anambra, including the brutal assault of Miss Jennifer Edema Elohor, Ezeobika said the incidents revealed “a frightening collapse of control” under the leadership of Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun.
“Vigilante groups have become oppressive tools in the hands of state governors, spreading small arms, extorting citizens, and trampling on rights. Their continued existence is unconstitutional and a grave danger to our democracy,” he said.
The activist accused the Nigeria Police Force of dereliction of duty, citing cases such as the assault on an Ibom Air passenger in Lagos and the hostage standoff involving musician Wasiu Ayinde (K1 De Ultimate) at Abuja airport. “Private actors are now usurping the state’s role in maintaining security,” he added.
Ezeobika warned that Nigeria risks sliding into Libya-style lawlessness, with illegal checkpoints, jungle justice killings, and highway kidnappings becoming daily realities. “The Force is overwhelmed, and citizens are abandoned,” he said.
He called on the judiciary to stop enabling illegal detentions and rights violations, stressing that courts must uphold the constitutional dignity of Nigerians under Sections 33–41 of the 1999 Constitution.
Demanding urgent reforms, Ezeobika urged fresh recruitment into the Police, withdrawal of officers from private employers, and a visible law enforcement presence across communities.
“Rights abuses have become the ugly face of Nigeria before the world. If the Police cannot protect lives and liberty, our democracy stands on shaky ground,” he warned.
Barr. Chukwudi Ezeobika is a solicitor of the Supreme Court, former National Legal Adviser of IPAC, and ex-Senatorial candidate for Anambra South.