The House of Representatives Committee on Army has called for the professional training and regulation of vigilante groups in Nigeria to curb the rise of jungle justice and lawlessness in communities.
Babajimi Benson, the Chairman of the Committee and member representing Ikorodu Federal Constituency, made this call in an exclusive interview with The PUNCH on Wednesday in Abuja.
The remarks follow the tragic killing of 16 northern hunters by a vigilante group in Uromi, Edo State, which has sparked national outrage and widespread demands for justice.
Benson stressed that this incident highlights the urgent need for reform in Nigeria’s internal security system, which should include the creation of state police to improve local law enforcement and reduce the burden on the military in civilian matters.
“The death of 16 hunters in Edo is a devastating event. It highlights the need for a complete overhaul of our internal security framework.
The establishment of state police is not just a political idea—it is a critical security necessity,” he said.
He pointed out that many vigilante groups operate without formal training, oversight, or alignment with national security policies, which increases the risk of abuse and unlawful actions.
“Proper training and oversight are essential for vigilante groups.
Alongside this, state police will establish security at the local level, ensuring officers are well-trained, accountable, and integrated into a larger national security strategy. This would significantly reduce the likelihood of tragic events like what occurred in Uromi,” Benson explained.
Benson also discussed the fragmentation of Nigeria’s security sector, revealing that the number of private security personnel licensed by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps exceeds the combined number of the Nigerian Armed Forces and the Police.
However, the private security personnel remain largely disconnected from national security strategies.
“This fragmentation poses significant risks. We cannot afford a divided security system in a country of over 200 million people,” he warned.
The lawmaker emphasized that the military should focus on its constitutional role of defending the nation’s borders, rather than being involved in domestic law enforcement, which is better suited for local or state police units.
“State police, with local knowledge and intelligence, are better positioned to address community-level security issues like banditry, clashes, and vigilante excesses,” Benson said.
Drawing from international examples, Benson cited the situation in Haiti, where the lack of a strong and coordinated security system allowed non-state actors, like former police officer-turned-gang leader Jimmy “Barbecue” Chérizier, to rise in power and challenge the state.
“We must learn from Haiti’s experience and take proactive measures to avoid similar scenarios in Nigeria,” he cautioned.
Benson concluded by reaffirming the commitment of the House Committee on Army to pursue reforms that will include a constitutionally-backed state police system, strategic oversight, and a unified national security framework.
“This reform, with the right oversight and legislative backing, will rebuild public trust, improve community safety, and better protect lives and property across the country.”
Earlier, Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, visited Kano—the home state of most of the slain victims—and pledged justice and compensation for their families.