RismadarVoice Reporters, April 29, 2026
Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly has called on the state government to strengthen oversight and regulation of community-based vigilante groups, citing growing concerns over misconduct and security breaches linked to their operations.
The resolution followed a motion presented during Tuesday’s plenary by the member representing Urue Offong Oruko State Constituency, Hon. Prescious Selong, who raised alarm over the unchecked activities of hired vigilantes across the state. The motion was seconded by Hon. Eric Akpan of Nsit Ibom State Constituency.
Leading debate on the matter, Selong noted that while vigilante groups were initially established to complement security agencies, especially in rural communities and during nighttime patrols, their activities have increasingly become a source of concern.
She alleged that some of these groups, operating without proper training or supervision, have been implicated in crimes including theft, extortion, sexual violence, and illegal possession of firearms.
“The House is deeply concerned that vigilantes, who were meant to safeguard communities, are now in some cases contributing to insecurity,” Selong said, stressing the need for urgent government intervention.
In response, the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. (Elder) Udeme Otong, directed the Ministry of Internal Security to enforce provisions of Section 21 of the Ibom Community Watch Law. The law mandates the registration and supervision of all vigilante groups and private security outfits operating within the state.
The House also mandated its Committee on Security, Youth and Sports to ensure compliance with the resolution and monitor the activities of such groups moving forward.
Lawmakers expressed optimism that proper regulation and integration of vigilante groups into the state’s formal security framework would enhance accountability and improve overall security coordination.
The plenary was subsequently adjourned to reconvene on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, at 12 noon.
