Abstract:

The spate of violent and unlawful killings by officers of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) Unit of Nigerian Police in South West region of the country has not only queried the efficiency required by the police in discharging their responsibilities but has also greatly undermined human security. Consequently, the lawless situation in the state has engendered acrimonious relationship among the citizenry which has further heightened the security dilemma in all ramifications. It is keenly observed that most of the killings are rampant in Lagos, Osun, Oyo, and Ogun States in the region which have recently generated a lot of social media and physical protests by the populace but despite this, the menace still persists. Lives of several young and adult Nigerians; students, football players, private and commercial drivers and other innocent ones have been cut short in the name of searching for the ‘Yahoo boys’ and bribe-takings. The study examines the instances, trends of violent and unlawful killing of civilians in the country by officers of Special Anti-Robbery Squad of Nigeria Police; and the factors triggering the brutality; and also interrogates the threats posed by the criminal acts to the peace and security in Southwest Nigeria and national security. The study in its findings indicates that the violent/unlawful killing occurs as a result of unprofessionalism, lack of funds/resources, uncontrolled anger/emotions, corruption, unprofessionalism, use of illicit drugs, drinking of alcohol while on duty among others on the part of officers of Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) and as well absence of Police reforms in Nigeria. Social contract and failed state theories are employed for the study. The study, however, concludes that, the Nigerian government should brace up in ensuring adequate security of lives and property for her citizenry, the need for urgent Nigeria Police reforms in the country, adoption of merit in recruitment process into the Force, fighting corruption to the core among others in checkmating the menace.