Rights activist and lawyer, Barr. Chukwudi Ezeobika, has warned that Nigeria is on the brink of state failure as vigilante groups tighten their grip on security functions once reserved for the Police.

Ezeobika, who cited the brutal assault of NYSC members in Anambra State, including Miss Jennifer Edema Elohor, said the attacks exposed “a frightening collapse of control” under Inspector General Kayode Egbetokun.

“Vigilante groups have become oppressive tools in the hands of state governors, spreading small arms and light weapons, extorting citizens, and trampling on rights. Their continued existence is unconstitutional and a grave danger to our democracy,” he said.

He accused the Police of surrendering their duties to governors’ vigilante outfits, which he described as “unconstitutional, oppressive, and a grave danger to democracy.”

He linked the rise of vigilantes to the proliferation of small arms, widespread extortion, and rights abuses, pointing to incidents such as the assault of an Ibom Air passenger in Lagos and the Abuja airport hostage drama involving musician Wasiu Ayinde. “What we are seeing is Nigeria drifting towards Libya-style lawlessness, where paramilitary groups dictate order,” he warned.

Ezeobika warned that Nigeria is drifting towards the kind of lawlessness seen in Libya, where paramilitary groups dictate order. “The daily extortion at illegal police checkpoints, jungle justice killings, and kidnappings on our highways prove the Force is overwhelmed and citizens abandoned,” he added.

Ezeobika urged the judiciary to stop enabling illegal detentions and to defend the rights guaranteed under Sections 33–41 of the Constitution.

He called for urgent reforms, including fresh Police recruitment, withdrawal of officers from private duty, and a stronger presence in communities.

“Rights abuses have become the ugly face of Nigeria before the world. If the Police cannot protect lives and liberty, then our democracy stands on shaky ground,” he said.