#EndSars: Buhari Must Review The Nigerian Police Structure Now – Archbishop Adewale Martin

The Catholic Archbishop of Lagos, Most Rev. Alfred Adewale Martins has called upon the Police authorities to listen to the legitimate public outcry against the excesses of the officers of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad, SARS

.

He said that while the intention for setting up the special police outfit to curb incidents of armed robbery and other similar crimes was noble, the personnel have resorted to molesting the very people they are meant to protect.

According to the prelate, the recent increase in allegations of police brutality, particularly SARS operatives, against Nigerians, mostly youths across the country was not only a breach of professional conduct but also showed wickedness and lack of respect for the citizens for whose welfare they were set up.

He therefore expressed his support for the ongoing protests demanding an end to SARS as presently constituted and the emergence of a better constituted unit that is well-monitored and accountable for its actions. The officers in charge of such units must be specially trained, well-funded and equipped for such purpose. SARS at present has compromised the purpose of its existence.

Archbishop Martins also  reiterated the need for a total overhaul of the present structure of Police Force in the country and the reorientation of the personnel to make them more efficient and accountable for their actions.

He also advised that the process of recruiting officers and men of the Force should be re-evaluated to attract more graduates of sound mind and body who must be exposed to international standards of training. He emphasised the need for adequate funding of police operations and an enhanced remuneration package for all policemen across board.

Hte of insecurity across the country.