In the past, encountering a police officer on the street made many Nigerians nervous. Stories of extortion, intimidation, and profiling were far too common. People didn’t feel protected — they felt targeted.
But lately, a shift is happening. Though the damage from years of abuse cannot be ignored, efforts are being made to correct these problems. Many Nigerians have started noticing a change in how the police operate.
The History of Police Harassment in Nigeria
For a long time, the Nigerian police were known for misconduct. Some officers abused their power by stopping young people, especially those with smartphones or laptops, and accusing them of being fraudsters. Many times, innocent people were forced to pay bribes or were even unlawfully detained.
Reports of police brutality were not rare. The #EndSARS movement, which began as a protest against the Special Anti-Robbery Squad, brought national and international attention to these injustices.
Real-Life Effects on Ordinary Nigerians
This fear affected daily life. People avoided certain roads or neighborhoods just to escape unnecessary encounters. Youths became afraid to dress a certain way or own expensive devices. It wasn’t just fear — it was a lack of trust in those meant to protect them.
Recent Changes and Reforms
However, in recent years, there have been real attempts to fix these issues. The Nigerian Police Force introduced new rules, retrained officers, and even disbanded SARS. These actions, while not perfect, have led to noticeable improvements:
Fewer random stops: Many Nigerians say they’re now less likely to be harassed without cause.
More accountability: Officers caught abusing their power are more likely to face consequences.
Better public education: People now know their rights and how to report misconduct.
Is It Completely Fixed?
Not yet. Some cases of abuse still occur, especially in remote areas. But they’re no longer as widespread or accepted as they once were. Social media, hotlines, and legal organizations are helping hold officers accountable.
Even some police officers now engage more professionally with civilians. The culture is shifting, slowly but surely.
Final Thoughts
Yes, many Nigerians once feared the police. That fear was based on real experiences and deep-rooted issues in the system. But today, things are starting to change. With reforms, public awareness, and increased accountability, there is hope that a better relationship between the police and citizens is possible.
We’re not there yet — but we’re moving in the right direction.
