Ishola Williams Calls for scrapping police on Inside Sources Interview

Retired Brigadier General Ishola Williams has ignited controversy with his call for the complete abolition of the Nigerian Police Force during an interview on Inside Sources with Laolu Akande. Williams, a respected security expert, argued that the current police system is irredeemably corrupt and ineffective, failing to protect citizens. Williams pointed to pervasive corruption, brutality, […]

Retired Brigadier General Ishola Williams has ignited controversy with his call for the complete abolition of the Nigerian Police Force during an interview on Inside Sources with Laolu Akande.

Williams, a respected security expert, argued that the current police system is irredeemably corrupt and ineffective, failing to protect citizens.

Williams pointed to pervasive corruption, brutality, and inefficiency within the police ranks as reasons for his radical proposal. He highlighted numerous instances of police misconduct, including extrajudicial killings, extortion, and collusion with criminal elements.

“On security, if you have been doing something for over 10 years and it is not working, you should change tactics. If you don’t change the doctrine and the tactics, you will never be able to deal with the problem,” Williams stated.

Instead of reforming the existing police structure, Williams proposed a complete overhaul, suggesting a shift to a more community-oriented and accountable security apparatus.

He emphasized the importance of public safety being managed from the grassroots level, asserting that crime prevention is a more effective crime control system.

“That is why we need state police, that is why we need local government police,” he said. “Because where do they kidnap people if not in communities?”

Williams suggested replacing the Nigerian Police with a Crime Intelligence and Criminal Agency, akin to the FBI in the United States. He advocated for the creation of a para-military police force, reminiscent of the original mobile police, and strengthening border agencies.

“With a good para-military police and border agencies, you don’t need the military; the military can now concentrate in the North-East,” he explained.

Williams’ proposal has sparked a heated debate among security analysts, policymakers, and the general public. While some support his call for drastic measures to address police reform, others warn against the potential consequences of completely abolishing the police force without a viable alternative in place.

Critics argue that while reform is necessary, abolishing the police force altogether could create a security vacuum and lead to increased lawlessness and chaos, especially in a country facing significant security challenges. They contend that a gradual and carefully managed transition to state and local policing, with robust oversight mechanisms, might be a more practical approach.

Williams’ comments come at a time when Nigeria is grappling with widespread insecurity, including banditry, terrorism, and communal violence. Many believe that a localized approach to policing could enhance responsiveness and effectiveness in addressing these issues.

Williams reiterated his call for a fundamental rethinking of Nigeria’s policing strategy. He urged policymakers to consider his proposal seriously and to engage in a national dialogue on the future of policing in the country.

“The security of our citizens is paramount. We need a policing system that is accountable, effective, and trusted by the people it serves. The time for bold action is now,” Williams concluded.