How Police and Army Oppression Affects Nigerian Youth
Young people are the heart of Nigeria’s future, but they’re facing serious struggles. One of the biggest issues is the way the police and army treat them. For years, Nigerian security forces have been accused of doing harmful things like torturing people, taking bribes, and even killing without reason. This is taking a huge toll on young Nigerians, affecting their health, education, and chances to succeed in life.
Health Problems
When the police or army act violently, it can leave both physical and emotional scars. Many young people have been hurt—or worse, killed—during protests or random encounters. A tragic example was the 2020 Lekki Toll Gate shooting in Lagos, where soldiers fired at peaceful protesters, leaving many dead or injured.
Survivors often struggle with mental health issues like anxiety, depression, and PTSD. In fact, a study found that 70% of young Nigerians who experienced violence showed signs of PTSD. These struggles can make it hard for them to move forward in life.
Impact on Education
Violence and extortion by security forces also mess with young people’s education. Some are forced to drop out because their families lose money to police bribes or because of tragic events. Many young Nigerians are extorted by the police, which eats into what little money they have. This makes it harder for them to save, start businesses, or plan for the future.
There are ways to fix this, but it will take serious effort from the government. Here are some changes that could be implemented :
• Create Watchdog Groups: Independent organizations should investigate cases of police or army abuse and hold offenders accountable.
• Train Security Forces: Officers need proper training in human rights, conflict management, and how to build trust with the public.
• Be Transparent: Security forces should operate openly and take responsibility for their actions.
The way police and the army treat Nigeria’s youth is damaging not just for them but for the whole country’s future. Young people deserve better—they need to feel safe, get an education, and have opportunities to succeed. It’s up to the government to step up and make real changes to protect and support its youth.