By NGOZI NJOKU

Some Lagos-based lawyers have raised fresh concern over persistent police abuse, urging stricter enforcement of existing laws and stronger accountability mechanisms across the justice system.

They spoke in separate interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Lagos, highlighting recurring violations and gaps in institutional oversight.

Mr Alozie Nwoke, Principal Counsel, said unlawful arrests, harassment and prolonged detention without trial remain widespread in spite of clear legal provisions guiding police conduct.

“People still get picked up without proper investigation. Some are detained longer than the law allows. These things happen more often than they should,” he said.

He stressed that the legal framework governing police operations was adequate, but compliance remained inconsistent due to weak enforcement and lack of internal discipline.

“We already have laws. The Constitution is there, the Police Act is there. The issue is making sure those laws are actually followed,” Nwoke added.

Nwoke noted that erring officers risk dismissal, internal sanctions or prosecution, but such measures were rarely applied, reducing deterrence and encouraging misconduct.

Ugochi Opara, also Lagos-based lawyer, said many victims failed to pursue justice because of fear, intimidation, or limited awareness of their fundamental rights under the law.

“Some people don’t even know their rights. Others are afraid of intimidation. So, a lot of cases go unreported,” she said.

She explained that even when complaints were filed, bureaucratic delays and lack of transparency often discouraged victims from following through with cases.

“There should be a more open and transparent system where people can report and actually see results,” Opara said.

Mr Stanley Amah, a law firm partner, emphasised the importance of independent monitoring bodies to check police excesses and ensure accountability.

“If the system is left to police themselves, it becomes difficult to achieve real accountability. There has to be proper monitoring from outside,” he said.

Amah also highlighted the role of continuous professional training in improving police conduct, particularly in areas of human rights and community relations.

“Officers need continuous training, especially on human rights and how to deal with civilians professionally,” Amah added.

The lawyers agreed that while laws exist to punish misconduct, enforcement gaps continue to undermine justice and public confidence in law enforcement institutions.

They called for stronger oversight institutions, quicker disciplinary procedures, and sustained public enlightenment on citizens’ rights and legal protections.

They added that improving police accountability was vital to rebuilding public trust, enhancing rule of law, and strengthening the credibility of the justice system. (NAN)

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