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Security expert, Luqman Gidado, has called on the Federal Government to strengthen the Nigeria Police Force, saying the current leadership under Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Olatunji Disu is making deliberate efforts to build a more people-centred and responsive policing system.
Gidado made the call on Thursday during a live appearance on Politics HQ, where he discussed the theme, “Promoting Informed Electoral Participation Ahead of 2027.”
Speaking on election security, he cautioned against excessive reliance on military deployments during electoral processes, arguing that increased militarisation does not necessarily guarantee credible elections.
According to him, international experiences have shown that stronger police presence and effective community policing deliver better results than over-militarisation.
“Over-militarisation of the security landscape in Nigeria will not improve the electioneering process. In countries such as Ecuador, it was not military deployments but enhanced police presence that helped restore order during elections,” he said.
Gidado urged the Federal Government to invest more resources in strengthening the Police Force, noting that the current leadership is working towards making policing more effective and citizen-focused.
He also commended the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies for recent successes in tackling insecurity and rescuing kidnap victims across the country.
The security analyst cited the rescue of the sister of a former minister and her twin sons in Oyo State as well as ongoing efforts to secure the release of abducted schoolchildren in the state.
He expressed confidence that security agencies were making significant progress in tracking down the perpetrators and securing the victims’ freedom.
“Security agencies are closing in on the abductors, which is why they are resorting to propaganda videos to mount pressure on the government. I am confident that the abducted children will be rescued,” he stated.
Gidado further highlighted recent security breakthroughs in Zamfara State and the Federal Capital Territory, where several kidnap victims were rescued and suspected bandits apprehended.
He attributed the persistence of banditry and other violent crimes to inadequate security presence in many rural communities, noting that criminal groups often exploit the resulting security gaps.
According to him, expanding security coverage in rural areas and addressing socio-economic challenges through targeted development programmes are essential to achieving lasting peace and stability.
“The government must improve security presence in rural communities while also pursuing policies that enhance economic opportunities and living conditions for residents. These measures are critical to addressing the root causes of insecurity,” he said.
