The Network on Police Reform in Nigeria (NOPRIN) has called on all stakeholders, including the National Assembly, the Police Service Commission, Ministry of Police Affairs, Inspector General of Police, Civil society organizations, and members of the public, to collaborate in implementing the recommendations on strengthening the Outreach and Operations of the Lagos State Police Command’s Complaint Response Unit (CRU).

The recommendations are in the just launched  Needs Assessment Report by the  NOPRIN with the support of the Action Group on Free Civic Space.

NOPRIN’s Programmes Officer, Ms Precious Osinaku, said “Together, we can ensure that the Lagos CRU becomes a model of accountability and responsiveness in Nigeria’s policing system.”

She explained that the Complaint Response Unit (CRU) serves as a critical mechanism for addressing grievances, promoting transparency, and ensuring the protection of human rights within the police system.

She further said: “The newly launched report provides a comprehensive analysis of the Lagos State CRU’s current operations, identifies gaps, and offers actionable recommendations for improvement.”

Osinaku said that the key highlights of the Needs Assessment Report are as follows, first, there are the current challenges; a detailed insights into the operational, structural, and procedural limitations hindering the effectiveness of the Lagos State CRU.

Then, the community engagement; findings on public awareness and accessibility of the CRU, emphasising the need for more awareness and inclusive and responsive service delivery.

The  report recommended that strategic proposals enhance structural and procedural operations resource allocation, capacity building, and technology integration to improve transparency and efficiency.

Concerning capacity development, the Report demands frameworks for training and equipping CRU officers to better handle complaints and communicate with the public.

Osinaku stressed that the project goal is to strengthen the accountability of the Lagos State Police Command, enhance public trust and cooperation with law enforcement agencies and promote a human rights-centered approach to policing in Lagos State.

Osinaku stated: “This report underscores our commitment to building a policing system that is accountable, transparent, and aligned with democratic principles.

“The CRU has the potential to bridge thethe gap between the police and the public, but it requires the support, resources, and reforms outlined in this report to fulfil its mandate effectively.

“The Action Group on Free Civic Space played an instrumental role in supporting this initiative.

Their commitment to safeguarding civic freedoms and enhancing democratic governance has been invaluable in shaping the outcomes of this project.