A call for an increased presence of legal professionals within the Nigerian Police Force has been made by Tosin Osasona, a legal expert and program officer at the Nigerian Institute of Social and Economic Research/MacArthur Foundation Projects on Corruption Control. Speaking during a media town hall meeting organized by Partners West Africa Nigeria (PWAN) in the Southwest region, Osasona highlighted the pivotal role lawyers can play in ensuring the effective prosecution of criminal cases.

Osasona pointed to the Police Act 2020, which stipulates that only police officers who are qualified lawyers are permitted to prosecute cases in court. He questioned the practicality of this mandate, citing the small number of lawyer-officers compared to the significant workload they face. According to him, bridging this gap by recruiting more lawyers would improve the overall efficiency of case management and legal proceedings within the force.

To address these challenges, Osasona proposed assigning at least one lawyer to every police division. This measure, he argued, would lead to more robust investigations and prosecutions, ensuring that cases are handled with the rigor and precision required by the law.

On the topic of State Policing, Osasona urged policymakers to prioritize problem-solving, efficiency, and accountability over administrative control. He highlighted the need to strike a balance between effective law enforcement and safeguarding citizens’ rights, stressing that both goals are essential for building public trust in policing institutions.

The town hall meeting brought together journalists from across the region to explore the implications of the Police Act 2020 for the public and law enforcement. The discussions centered on fostering greater understanding of the law and its potential to transform police practices. Participants also reflected on the media’s role in ensuring police accountability and promoting responsible journalism in reporting issues related to law enforcement.

Partners West Africa Nigeria, through this initiative, aims to bridge gaps between the police and the communities they serve. By advancing legal literacy and facilitating dialogue, the organization seeks to cultivate a justice system that upholds equity, transparency, and accountability. This collaborative effort is expected to enhance trust and cooperation between law enforcement agencies and the public, contributing to a more equitable society.