Vigilantism and Policing In Akwa Ibom State of Nigeria, 1987 – 1999

Abstract

The rise in crime and insecurity in Akwa Ibom State from 1987 to 1999, led to the proliferation of several non-state armed groups like Vigilante Groups of Nigeria, among others In spite of this development, however, issues and concerns were constantly being raised about them regarding whether they could really be agents of policing against the backdrop of their penchant for human rights violations and extra-judicial killings. It is against this background that this article examines the role of vigilante groups in policing Akwa Ibom State. Using a content analysis method, and drawing information from both primary and secondary sources, the research observed that the activities of vigilante groups between 1987 and 1999 were not guided by a body of law nor did it conform to the principles of rule of law and constitutionalism, hence their services were not accepted by the general public in Akwa Ibom State. The paper concludes that as long as the vigilante groups, like the formal policing establishments, remained the instruments of intimidation of political opponents by the politicians that control them; the terrain of vigilantism would continue to be in the realm of dejection; hence the need to set up a body of law that guards the conduct of Vigilantism and activities of vigilante groups in Akwa Ibom State.