Policing and Human Rights Recognition in Nigeria. A Study of the Special Anti-robbery Squad 1992 – 2020
Abstract
In this study, a quantitative survey research design was adopted to investigate the topic of “Policing and Human Rights Recognition in Nigeria: A Study of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad 1992-2020.” A structured questionnaire was designed to obtain information from a sample of 120 respondents, who were selected using a convenient sampling technique. The data collected from the respondents were presented and analyzed using SPSS26 software. Hypotheses were formulated and tested using the one-sample t-test to assess the historical background and evolution of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), the extent of human rights violations by SARS during the studied period, and the response of the Nigerian government and relevant authorities to the allegations of human rights violations by SARS. The findings revealed that the establishment of SARS was not solely intended to address the increasing rate of armed robbery and serious crimes in Nigeria, but it has been marred by significant human rights violations. However, the extent of these violations was found to be non-significant, indicating potential challenges in rebuilding public trust and confidence in the unit and the Nigerian policing system. Furthermore, the response of the Nigerian government and relevant authorities to the allegations of human rights violations by SARS was initially deemed adequate, with improvements observed over time. In conclusion, the study highlights the complex interplay between policing and human rights recognition in Nigeria, with significant implications for law enforcement practices and public trust. Based on the findings, several recommendations are proposed, including comprehensive police reforms, enhanced human rights training for officers, strengthened oversight and accountability mechanisms, and public participation in policing efforts. These recommendations aim to promote a rights-based approach to policing and improve the relationship between citizens and law enforcement agencies. Overall, this research contributes valuable insights to the existing literature on policing and human rights in Nigeria, providing a foundation for evidence-based policymaking and further research in this critical area of concern.
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CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
Background of the Study
Policing and the recognition of human rights are two critical aspects that intertwine in any society. Effective law enforcement requires a delicate balance between maintaining public safety and safeguarding the fundamental rights and dignity of individuals (Amnesty International, 2019). In Nigeria, the issue of policing and human rights has been a longstanding concern, particularly in the context of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), a unit established in 1992 to combat armed robbery and other serious crimes (Okeke, 2019). Over the years, SARS has faced numerous allegations of human rights violations, including extrajudicial killings, torture, extortion, and unlawful arrests (Ojigho, 2020).
The evolution of SARS reflects the broader challenges faced by Nigeria’s law enforcement agencies in balancing security concerns and human rights protection (Anikwe, 2020). As the unit operated under the mandate of addressing serious crimes, it raised questions about accountability, transparency, and adherence to human rights standards within the Nigerian policing system (Okereke, 2021).
Despite repeated promises of reform and measures taken by the Nigerian government to address the issue of police brutality and human rights abuses, including the disbandment of SARS in 2020 (BBC News, 2020), reports of police misconduct and rights violations continued to emerge (Amnesty International, 2021). The persistent challenges in policing and human rights recognition in Nigeria have sparked public outrage and protests, demanding comprehensive and sustainable reforms to ensure that law enforcement agencies operate within the confines of the law and respect the rights of all citizens (Human Rights Watch, 2021).
Historically, SARS was initially formed to fill the void left by the dissolution of the Nigerian Police Force’s mobile police units, which had a reputation for being involved in human rights abuses (Okeke, 2019). However, over time, SARS itself became infamous for its involvement in acts of brutality and human rights violations. Despite numerous reports and evidence documenting these abuses, little action was taken to hold perpetrators accountable, leading to a culture of impunity (Anikwe, 2020).
The year 2020 was a turning point in the fight against police brutality and human rights abuses in Nigeria. The #EndSARS movement gained momentum and attracted widespread attention both nationally and internationally (Ojigho, 2020). Protests erupted across the country, with citizens demanding justice for victims of police brutality and comprehensive reforms in the law enforcement sector (Amnesty International, 2020).
In response to the protests, the Nigerian government announced the disbandment of SARS in October 2020 (BBC News, 2020). However, this move was met with scepticism, as previous attempts at reforming the unit had not yielded significant improvements in its conduct (Human Rights Watch, 2020). The dissolution of SARS was seen as merely a symbolic gesture and did not address the root causes of police brutality and impunity (Okereke, 2021).
Despite the disbandment of SARS, allegations of human rights violations by other police units, such as the Police Anti-Cultism Unit, continued to surface (Premium Times, 2021). This raised questions about the sincerity and commitment of the Nigerian government in implementing meaningful reforms to address the systemic issues within the police force and uphold human rights standards (Amnesty International, 2021).
In 2021, Amnesty International released a report detailing how security forces in Nigeria had used excessive force to suppress peaceful protests and highlighted the continued pattern of human rights violations (Amnesty International, 2021). The report underscored the urgent need for comprehensive reforms in Nigeria’s law enforcement agencies to ensure they operate in compliance with human rights principles (Human Rights Watch, 2021).
As the country moved into 2022, the question of police reform and human rights recognition remained at the forefront of public discourse (Vanguard News, 2022). There were calls for the Nigerian government to take concrete actions to address the issues raised by the #EndSARS protests and to implement meaningful changes in the policing system (Daily Trust, 2022).
In conclusion, the issue of policing and human rights recognition in Nigeria, particularly in the context of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), has been a complex and long-standing problem. The unit, established in 1992, was initially intended to address serious crimes, but it became notorious for perpetrating human rights violations. Despite promises of reform and the disbandment of SARS in 2020, reports of police misconduct and abuses persisted, highlighting the need for comprehensive and sustainable reforms in Nigeria’s law enforcement agencies. The #EndSARS protests in 2020 brought the issue to the forefront and emphasized the urgency of addressing the systemic challenges within the Nigerian police force to ensure respect for human rights and accountability (Premium Times, 2022).
Statement of Problem
The issue of policing and human rights recognition in Nigeria, particularly concerning the operations of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), has been a persistent and concerning problem over the years. Despite numerous reports and evidence of human rights violations perpetrated by SARS personnel, including extrajudicial killings, torture, extortion, and unlawful arrests, little action has been taken to hold perpetrators accountable (Amnesty International, 2021). The lack of accountability and the culture of impunity within the Nigerian police force have eroded public trust and confidence in the law enforcement system (Okeke, 2019).
The #EndSARS protests in 2020 highlighted the gravity of the problem, as citizens took to the streets demanding justice for victims of police brutality and comprehensive reforms in the police force (BBC News, 2020). While the Nigerian government announced the disbandment of SARS in response to the protests, questions remained regarding the effectiveness and sincerity of the reforms (Human Rights Watch, 2020).
Moreover, despite the disbandment of SARS, reports of police misconduct and human rights abuses by other police units continued to surface, indicating a broader systemic issue within the Nigerian policing system (Premium Times, 2021). As a result, there is an urgent need to address the persistent problem of police brutality and human rights violations in Nigeria to restore public trust, ensure respect for human rights, and foster a transparent and accountable law enforcement system (Amnesty International, 2021).
Objectives of the Study
This research aims to achieve the following specific objectives:
- To examine the historical background and evolution of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) in Nigeria from 1992 to 2020.
- To investigate the extent and nature of human rights violations by SARS during the stated period.
- To assess the response of the Nigerian government and relevant authorities to the allegations of human rights violations by SARS and evaluate the effectiveness of measures taken to address the issue.
Research Questions
To address the objectives, this study focused on the following research questions:
- What is the historical development and mandate of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) in Nigeria between 1992 and 2020?
- What are the documented cases of human rights violations by SARS during the specified period, and what were the patterns and trends of these violations?
- How have the Nigerian government and relevant authorities responded to the allegations of human rights violations by SARS, and what measures have been taken to address the issue?
Research Hypotheses
To guide the research and analysis, the following hypotheses were tested:
Null Hypotheses(H0):
- The establishment of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) was not intended to address the increasing rate of armed robbery and other serious crimes in Nigeria, but it has been marred by human rights violations.
- The extent of human rights violations by SARS was not significant during the period of 1992 to 2020, leading to a loss of public trust and confidence in the unit and the Nigerian policing system.
- The response of the Nigerian government and relevant authorities to the allegations of human rights violations by SARS was initially adequate but has shown improvements over time.
Alternative Hypotheses
- The establishment of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) was intended to address the increasing rate of armed robbery and other serious crimes in Nigeria, but it has been marred by human rights violations.
- The extent of human rights violations by SARS was significant during the period of 1992 to 2020, leading to a loss of public trust and confidence in the unit and the Nigerian policing system.
- The response of the Nigerian government and relevant authorities to the allegations of human rights violations by SARS was initially inadequate but has shown improvements over time.
Significance of the Study
The significance of this study extends to various stakeholders, including students, scholars, security operatives in Nigeria, and the Nigerian government.
For students, this study provides valuable insights into the complex interplay between policing and human rights recognition in Nigeria, particularly focusing on the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS). It serves as a comprehensive resource for understanding the historical background, evolution, and human rights challenges faced by law enforcement agencies. Students pursuing criminology, human rights, and law-related disciplines will gain a deeper understanding of the intricacies involved in balancing security concerns with human rights protection.
Scholars and researchers will find this study beneficial as it contributes to the existing body of knowledge on policing and human rights recognition in Nigeria. The literature review and analysis of documented cases of human rights violations provide a robust foundation for further research and academic exploration in this field.
For security operatives in Nigeria, this study serves as a critical reflection on the past practices of SARS and the broader implications of human rights abuses. It highlights the need for police reform, training, and the adoption of international human rights standards in their operations. By understanding the mistakes of the past, security operatives can be better equipped to uphold human rights, build public trust, and enhance the effectiveness of their work.
The Nigerian government will find this study crucial in addressing the systemic issues within the law enforcement system. The research findings and recommendations can guide policymakers in developing comprehensive reforms to ensure transparency, accountability, and respect for human rights within the police force. Implementing the suggested reforms will help restore public confidence in the security sector and promote a culture of respect for human rights across all government institutions.
Scope of the Study
The scope of this study focuses on examining the policing and human rights recognition in Nigeria, with a specific emphasis on the operations of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) from its establishment in 1992 to the year 2020. The study will delve into the historical background, mandate, and evolution of SARS as a specialized unit within the Nigerian Police Force. It will also analyze documented cases of human rights violations, such as extrajudicial killings, torture, extortion, and unlawful arrests, attributed to SARS during the specified period.
While the study primarily centers on SARS, it will also consider the broader issues within Nigeria’s law enforcement system concerning police brutality and human rights abuses. However, the scope does not extend to the post-2020 developments or events beyond the stated period. The research findings and analysis will contribute to the understanding of the challenges faced by Nigerian policing and the need for comprehensive reforms to ensure a rights-respecting and accountable law enforcement system.
Operational Definition of Terms
To ensure clarity and consistency in understanding the key concepts used throughout the study, the following terms will be operationally defined:
 Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS): A specialized unit of the Nigerian Police Force established in 1992 with a primary mandate of combating armed robbery and other serious crimes.
Human Rights Violations: Any actions or omissions by SARS personnel that result in the infringement of fundamental human rights, including but not limited to extrajudicial killings, torture, unlawful arrests, and extortion.
 Policing: The act of maintaining public order, preventing and detecting crimes, and enforcing laws and regulations within a society.
Organization of the Study
This research will be organized into five chapters:
Chapter One – Introduction: This chapter provides an overview of the study, including the background, problem statement, objectives, research questions, hypotheses, significance, scope, limitations, and operational definitions.
Chapter Two – Literature Review: The literature review will explore existing academic works, reports, and studies related to the topic of policing and human rights recognition in Nigeria, focusing on the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS).
Chapter Three – Methodology: This chapter outlines the research design, data collection methods, data analysis techniques, and ethical considerations employed in the study.
Chapter Four – Findings and Analysis: Here, the research findings will be presented, and a comprehensive analysis of the data will be conducted to address the research questions and test the hypotheses.
Chapter Five – Conclusion and Recommendations: The final chapter will summarize the key findings, draw conclusions, and provide recommendations for policymakers, law enforcement agencies, and stakeholders to improve policing and human rights recognition in Nigeria.
REFERENCES
- Oluwatosin, F., & Okoro, O. (2021). Impact of Disbandment and SWAT Formation on Police Brutality. Journal of Crime and Society, 10(1), 30-45.
- Onuoha, I. (2019). Extortion by SARS: Abuse of Power and Corruption. Journal of Crime and Society, 6(2), 78-92.
- Oyeniyi, A. (2022). Government’s Response to #EndSARS Demands and the Future of Police Accountability. African Journal of Governance and Development, 11(1), 45-58.
- Oyeniyi, T. (2020). #EndSARS Protests: Demands for Police Reforms in Nigeria. International Journal of Social Justice and Human Rights, 15(1), 78-92.
- Premium Times. (2021). Allegations of Police Misconduct Continue After SARS’ Disbandment. Retrieved from https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/top-news/425141-allegations-of-police-misconduct-continue-after-sars-disbandment.html
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