A media townhall meeting on human rights and the Police Act 2020 convened yesterday, bringing together journalists, civil society representatives, and stakeholders to deepen understanding of Nigeria’s security governance framework. The event, organized by the Rule of Law and Empowerment Initiative, also known as Partners West Africa Nigeria (PWAN), was supported by the UK Integrated Security Fund of the Foreign Commonwealth Development Office (FCDO).
The meeting is part of PWAN’s broader project titled “Enhancing Police Governance: Deepening Understanding of the Police Act 2020 and Regulations Across Nigeria”. It aims to bridge knowledge gaps about the Act and improve its application within the Nigerian Police Force (NPF). Addressing participants, Holly Mohanye, speaking on behalf of PWAN’s Executive Director, Ms. ’Kemi Okenyodo, described the initiative as a step toward fostering transparency, accountability, and trust between law enforcement and the public.
One of the core focuses of the townhall was educating media practitioners on the critical provisions of the Police Act 2020. Discussions explored sensitive issues such as arrests, stop-and-search operations, and profiling, emphasizing the need for rights-based reporting to enhance accountability within law enforcement.
Precious Osinaku, Program Officer for the Network on Police Reform in Nigeria (NOPRIN), highlighted the media’s critical role in investigative journalism and responsible reporting. “We want empowered journalists who understand the Police Act and can ask the right questions, speak to issues, and demand accountability,” she said.
Ngozichukwu Chukwuma, a media freelancer, underscored the importance of the media in supporting advocacy and transparency. “It’s crucial for us as storytellers and advocates to know the changes in the new Police Act and use the media to support gender-based violence survivors and hold the police accountable,” she said.
Participants from various states, including John Afolarin from Osun State, expressed optimism about the program’s impact. Afolarin noted, “This meeting has improved my understanding of the Police Act and how citizens can engage police officers respectfully and effectively.”
However, discussions revealed a knowledge gap within the police force itself regarding the Act’s provisions. Participants agreed that educating both law enforcement and the public on their rights and responsibilities is crucial for fostering mutual respect and effective policing.
PWAN’s Communication Officer, Holly Mohanye, reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to strengthening police governance and promoting human rights through collaboration with the media and civil society.
“This initiative aims to enhance the media’s capacity to report on human rights and the Police Act responsibly,” she said.
The event also coincided with the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, further reinforcing the media’s role in advocacy and awareness.
As the townhall concluded, participants voiced optimism that the knowledge gained would lead to more informed reporting and improved relationships between the police, the media, and the public. PWAN expressed gratitude to the UK Integrated Security Fund for its support and called for continued collaboration to ensure the success of police reforms in Nigeria.
