The CLEEN Foundation has urged law enforcement agencies to adopt a more democratic and human rights-compliant approach to managing protests.
In a recent policy brief, the organization expressed concerns over the frequent use of excessive force by security operatives, which has led to public distrust and escalated tensions during demonstrations.
It emphasized that while maintaining public order is essential, it should not come at the expense of citizens’ fundamental rights.
According to CLEEN Foundation, recent incidents of police brutality during protests have reinforced the need for urgent reforms.
The organization stressed that security forces must shift their strategy from confrontation to engagement, ensuring that protest management aligns with international human rights standards.
It highlighted the importance of equipping officers with the necessary training to handle demonstrations in a manner that respects the rights of citizens.
The foundation also called for increased accountability in the policing of protests, noting that independent oversight mechanisms should be established to investigate cases of misconduct. Without such structures, it warned, impunity would persist, further eroding public confidence in law enforcement.
Additionally, CLEEN Foundation advocated for stronger dialogue between security agencies and protest organizers, arguing that open communication can prevent violence and promote peaceful demonstrations.
Emphasizing the importance of proportionality in the use of force, the organization maintained that law enforcement should always prioritize de-escalation techniques over aggressive tactics.
It argued that the use of non-lethal crowd control measures should be the standard approach, with lethal force considered only as an absolute last resort.
By implementing these reforms, CLEEN Foundation believes authorities can strike a balance between ensuring public order and protecting democratic freedoms.
As protests continue to shape political and social movements in Nigeria, the foundation insists that security forces must embrace a model that fosters trust rather than fear.
It urged the government to take proactive steps in reforming protest policing, ensuring that law enforcement operates within the framework of democracy and human rights. CLEEN Foundation reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for justice and accountability, calling on all stakeholders to work together in promoting a fair, transparent, and rights-respecting security system.