Balancing Act

Nigeria is seeing a rise in local vigilante groups emerging as a response to escalating insecurity. While vigilante groups aim to provide protection and combat crime, their lack of oversight poses significant risks for the government and the Nigerian populace.

Public distrust in the police force has led communities to seek alternative security measures for self-defence. The desperation potentially creates a new pool of individuals seeking simple or complex weapons for self-defence and possibly more aggressive actions. This may fuel or further incentivise smuggling and illegal sales of arms. As vigilantes often operate outside formal structures, tracking and controlling the acquisition and use of their weapons take a lot of work. The lack of oversight may create opportunities for the diversion of legal guns and the misuse of confiscated ones. As vigilantes gain access to weaponry, it further erodes trust in state security forces and encourages communities to arm themselves, further perpetuating a cycle of armament.

The absence of proper oversight and training may also lead to clashes between the vigilante groups and state authorities, exacerbating tensions within local communities. While vigilante organisations have helped to reduce crime rates, they have also engaged in several cases of abuse, including extortion, harassing the public, extrajudicial killings, and aiding and abetting criminal activity. For instance, while vigilante groups like the Bakassi Boys initially curbed crime, they later became notorious for abuses like extrajudicial killings and political targeting. The International Crisis Group’s 2022 report sheds light on the lack of resources, supervision, and training among vigilante group members, making them susceptible to human rights violations and manipulation by the elite. The potential for ethnic and communal strife looms large as these groups defend specific regions or ethno-religious interests, highlighting the potential dangers of unchecked vigilante power.

Additionally, state governments’ responses to vigilante activities vary, creating legal ambiguity. While some collaborate with informal security groups, others outlaw them. This inconsistency highlights the need for a clear legal framework and effective oversight. This lack of consistency underscores the pressing need for a coherent legal framework and robust oversight mechanisms to govern the activities of vigilante groups.

The surge of vigilante groups in Nigeria stems from a complex interplay of factors, including public distrust in official security forces and a desperate need for self-protection. While they offer temporary solace, their potential for abuse and exacerbation of conflict poses significant threats. It is, therefore, essential to explore solutions that address the root causes, regulate existing groups, and build trust in formal security structures. Tackling the core issues fuelling insecurity is crucial. This includes strengthening the justice system, promoting economic growth and addressing social inequalities that breed discontent. Investment in education and community-based programmes can empower individuals and foster cooperation instead of resorting to armed self-defence. Additionally, addressing inter-ethnic and religious tensions through dialogue and conflict resolution mechanisms can reduce the need for communities to resort to vigilante groups for protection.

In addition, a clear legal framework for the operation of vigilante groups is essential. This framework should establish strict registration processes, training requirements, and accountability mechanisms to prevent human rights abuses. Under proper oversight, collaboration between vigilante groups and formal security forces could leverage local knowledge and manpower while ensuring adherence to the law. Furthermore, disbanding groups engaged in illegal activities and prosecuting perpetrators will send a strong message of deterrence. The recent launch of a private armed vigilante group by Miyetti Allah, a group composed of Fulani herders in Nassarawa State, is an example of the wanton creation of vigilante groups outside of the law with far-reaching implications. Following public outcry amidst fears that the group could exacerbate ethnic tensions, the leader of the group was arrested by state security.

Rebuilding public trust in the police and other security agencies is also vital in ensuring security measures are executed legally. This requires comprehensive reforms to address corruption, improve training and equipment, and ensure professionalism and human rights adherence. For example, in conflict hotspots like Plateau State, where community members have accused state security of alleged collusion with terrorist groups, community policing initiatives that foster closer relationships between law enforcement and citizens can bridge the gap and increase cooperation and public trust. Improving communication and transparency about security efforts can also alleviate anxieties and rebuild public confidence.

Vigilante groups have been historically integral to Nigeria’s security framework. However, structural flaws and the absence of proper oversight contribute to the challenges posed by these groups. While they may offer short-term solutions to security concerns, their actions also risk creating long-term instability and conflict. The unintended consequences of these groups underscore the need for a comprehensive and nuanced approach to address the root causes of insecurity in Nigeria. It is imperative to strike a balance between recognising the role of vigilantes’ security provisioning and implementing effective measures to prevent their potential misuse, ensuring the long-term stability and development of the country.