With Nigeria’s 2027 general elections approaching, renewed calls have emerged for security agencies to prioritize civilian safety through less-lethal crowd control methods during protests and public demonstrations.
Dennis A. Iseghohimen, a South African-based entrepreneur, philanthropist, and CEO of Nicholas Auto Solution (NAS), issued the appeal following the fatal shooting of a young boy by a soldier during a protest in Ekpoma, Edo State. The demonstration had erupted over rising kidnapping incidents plaguing the community.
While acknowledging that criminal activity demands firm responses, Iseghohimen described the loss of innocent life during civilian demonstrations as deeply concerning. He stressed that security personnel exist to safeguard citizens and preserve order, warning that lethal force during protests frequently heightens tensions and erodes public confidence.
“International best practices show that security forces worldwide employ accepted crowd management techniques—including controlled warning shots and non-lethal tools like rubber bullets—to handle violent protests while reducing fatality risks,” Iseghohimen noted.
He acknowledged that no crowd control approach eliminates risk entirely, but emphasized that less-lethal methods, when applied according to proper engagement protocols, dramatically lower the chance of deadly outcomes compared to live rounds.
The philanthropist urged federal authorities and security leadership to reassess operational guidelines and expand the use of non-lethal alternatives, alongside enhanced training in civilian engagement and protest management strategies.
Iseghohimen also called on community leaders, local councillors, and Esan West Local Government residents to strengthen partnerships with security forces through vigilance and legitimate intelligence sharing to combat criminal elements.
Praising Edo State Governor Senator Monday Okpebholo for his prompt response to the incident, Iseghohimen expressed optimism that coordinated action among state government, local leadership, and security agencies would restore stability and address safety concerns.
He concluded by emphasizing that public safety, accountability, and human rights protections must guide security operations, especially as Nigeria enters another crucial electoral period.
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