By Yahaya Balogun
Your appointment as the new Police Chief has brought a breath of fresh air to reasonable and responsible Nigerians. Remember, you are bringing your extensive experience to your new role, including your past sterling leadership of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) in Lagos, Nigeria, where you helped curb incessant insecurity in Lagos State.
Now, Nigerians are eagerly looking for your involvement in the urgent fight against the abuse of children and the grave offenses against women across Nigeria.
Sir, the distressing video that has recently gone viral on social media, depicting a child suffering abuse in a religious establishment under the guise of faith miracle, demands a thorough investigation. The harrowing imagery resembles that of a sacrificial ram, restrained for a ritual.
Unfortunately, many religious institutions in Nigeria have morphed into havens for the most heinous acts against women and children. As a law enforcement officer, the abuse of children is a felony offense that attracts zero tolerance in the US legal parlance.
While freedom of speech and religion are cornerstones of our society, they cannot extend to actions that cause harm and violate the fundamental rights of individuals. Cloaking child abuse in the name of religion is a grave injustice against the most vulnerable among us.
The previous Inspector General of Police under Kayode Egbetokun failed miserably in policing Nigeria. Egbetokun often exhibited complacency, if not outright complicity with religious figures, allowing them to instill fear in those brave enough to speak out against their misconduct.
Your police department must accord due respect to Comrade Omoyele Sowore for championing police reforms and enhancing their remuneration and welfare.
The Nigerian Police have, unfortunately, become tools for intimidation rather than protectors of the innocent. Courageous activists who dare to challenge the immoral behaviors of our religious leaders often find themselves unjustly detained and silenced. This reflects poorly on the integrity and professionalism of our police force in Nigeria.
As President Bola Ahmed Tinubu seeks to reshape Nigeria, the blight of religious banditry must not overshadow our nation’s reputation. We must hold accountable anyone exploiting innocent children for these nefarious purposes, sending a clear message to deter others.
The people of Nigeria are in dire need of relief, yearning for the safety of children from the clutches of unscrupulous religious authorities. Your prompt response is crucial at this critical time in our nation’s quest for a brighter, safer future.
Yahaya Balogun is a US law enforcement officer. He writes from Arizona, United States of America.
