Police and the institution of corruption in Nigeria

This paper explores the nexus between the police and corruption in Nigeria. Based on an empirical study of the role of the police utilising Lagos State as a case study, it was observed that corrupt practices in the police force are not a one-off event, rather they constitute a web of structural and accentuating factors, which are analysed within the political, economic, social, and cultural milieu. These factors are deep-seated and have worsened the means and methods used by police officers in perpetuating corruption. However, in spite of this phenomenon, academic writings on the phenomenon in Nigeria have remained scanty; hence, policy recommendations for tackling it are inadequate. Therefore, a study of this nature is not only timely but urgent. The negative implications of corruption by the police for security of citizens and national development cannot be overemphasised. Therefore, combating this phenomenon will necessitate a holistic approach that transcends mere income improvement.