Veteran Nollywood actor and lawyer Kanayo O. Kanayo has called on the leadership of the Nigeria Police Force to introduce further reforms, urging officers to reduce unnecessary checkpoints and improve their conduct towards members of the public.
The actor made the appeal in a video shared online following a 10-day filming trip to Ghana with his colleagues. According to Kanayo, they travelled between different locations, including Takoradi, without encountering a single police checkpoint throughout their journeys.
He noted that although police officers were present on Ghanaian roads, they appeared to carry out their duties strategically without frequently stopping motorists. He suggested that Nigeria could learn from this approach to policing.
Kanayo commended the Inspector-General of Police for the ongoing efforts to reform the force but urged him to pay greater attention to officers whose conduct damages the image of the police. He also alleged that some dismissed or retired officers had found their way back into the force, calling for proper measures to identify and remove such individuals.
The actor further criticised the alleged practice of treating young Nigerians who drive expensive cars as suspected internet fraudsters. He pointed out that many young people earn legitimate incomes through technology, entrepreneurship and other businesses, stressing that owning an expensive vehicle should not automatically make someone a suspect.
Speaking from his experience as a lawyer, Kanayo acknowledged that police officers have the authority to search individuals and vehicles when legally justified. However, he questioned the practice of stopping motorists without reasonable grounds and subjecting them to unnecessary questioning.
He urged police authorities to reduce the number of checkpoints across the country, warning that excessive stops could inconvenience Nigerians and create a negative impression of the country among tourists and other visitors.
Kanayo also condemned criminal activities and recognised the efforts of police officers who diligently work to protect lives and property. He stressed that his criticism was aimed at improving the system rather than dismissing the contributions of officers who perform their duties responsibly.
Concluding his message, the actor appealed to the police leadership to take further steps to restore public confidence and improve the force’s reputation. He emphasised that the Nigeria Police Force belongs to all Nigerians and should serve the public with professionalism, fairness and respect.
His comments have drawn attention to concerns about police checkpoints, motorists’ experiences and the need for continued reforms in Nigeria’s security system.
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