Socio-Political Environment and Policing in Rivers State, Nigeria

Abstract

The paper theoretically analysed the influence of socio-political environment on policing. It presented a detailed explanation of key variables such as; Police, Policing and Socio-Political Environment. It went further to analyse major issues of interrelation like; The Influence of Socio-Political Environment on Policing, Police and Politics in Rivers State, and Possible Factors responsible for inadequate policing in Nigeria. This work adopted Political Economy Theory which explained that The Police Force was politically organised to perpetually suppress the marginalized strata instead of acting as a vanguard of a just and equitable society and protecting the country’s democracy, human rights and socio-economic justice. The paper recommends that government at all levels should allow police officers to carry out their lawful functions and responsibilities adequately without fear or favour. Police officers should be free from unnecessary political engagements or appointments, else such engagements influence their activities or operations. The Police Service Commission should persevere and remain active in discharging its duty of supervision, by so doing, ensuring adequate policing in the country especially in Rivers State.