Independence Day: Civil Society’s Allegations Against Police Anti-Kidnapping Unit Undemocratic, Journalists Say
By Our Reporter
As Nigeria marks its 65th Independence anniversary, concerns have been raised over the tone and direction of public discourse surrounding the Imo State Police Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Unit, popularly known as Tiger Base. Journalists and civil society observers in the state have condemned recent social media allegations against the unit, describing them as one-sided and undemocratic.
Democracy thrives on the principles of human rights, fairness, and balanced reporting. However, it is equally a violation of democratic ethos to engage in lopsided narratives, especially when they lack credible evidence and due diligence.
A recent online discussion hosted on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) by Ms. Juliana Francis, Publisher of Security News Alert, has sparked outrage among media practitioners in Imo State. The discussion, titled “Anti-Kidnapping Unit Imo State Police Command: Unchecked Power, Extra-Judicial Killings, Enforced Disappearances, and Media Complicity”, was criticized for lacking investigative depth and for allegedly targeting the head of the unit, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Oladimeji Odeyeyiwa.
Imo-based journalists argue that the publication not only maligns the Tiger Base Commander but also casts aspersions on the entire media community in the state. According to them, such accusations are unfounded and fail to reflect the tireless efforts of journalists who consistently hold security agencies accountable while also supporting peace-building and public safety initiatives.
“The role of the media is to serve as a watchdog, not a weapon for character assassination,” a statement from concerned media professionals in the state reads. “Our investigative reports have led to the uncovering of criminal activities and contributed immensely to public security. We are always on the ground, verifying information directly from the Commissioner of Police and ensuring balanced reportage.”
They further noted that ACP Odeyeyiwa has remained committed to the rule of law and the Police Act, with his dedication earning him recent promotion to his current rank. “It is unfair to accuse him of extra-judicial activities without providing concrete evidence. The Tiger Base has played a crucial role in dismantling kidnapping rings and other criminal elements in the state, often at great personal risk to officers, some of whom have paid the ultimate price.”
The media community emphasized that while constructive criticism of the police is welcome, it must be based on facts and aimed at institutional reform, not personal attacks. “No one is claiming the police are perfect, but we must engage responsibly. The claims made by Juliana Francis amount to a serious allegation that deserves a retraction and an apology to journalists in Imo State,” the statement concluded.
As Nigeria reflects on 65 years of independence, stakeholders stress the need for responsible civic engagement, respect for journalistic integrity, and collaborative efforts between civil society, the media, and security agencies to strengthen democracy and uphold justice.