Police Mistrust in Nigeria: Legacies of Colonialism

• In Event: Criminology, Colonialism, and Coloniality

Abstract

Despite being entrusted with the vital responsibilities of citizen protection and maintenance of law and order; the Nigerian police force encounters widespread skepticism and mistrust among the population. This paper develops a framework to understand this widespread mistrust rooted in Nigeria's colonial past and post-colonial present. Employing a theoretical lens grounded in conflict theory, the paper analyzes factors contributing to this pervasive lack of trust among Nigerians. Using data from a 2020 national survey conducted by Afrobarometer, this study finds that experiencing financial hardship, instances of direct police corruption, and ethnic affiliation, all positively impact police distrust. Furthermore, this study also found that the relationship between financial disadvantage and police distrust varies across the different ethnic groups. Consistent with the historical formation of policing structures in Nigeria, individuals belonging to the Hausa/Fulani ethnic group exhibit comparatively higher levels of trust in law enforcement compared to other ethnic groups examined in this study. These findings underscore a pervasive sentiment of diminished trust in the Nigerian police force. This study also discusses the policy and research implications of the findings.

Author

• Happiness Oghenerhuru Daniel, Northeastern University