Iliyasu Abdullahi Bah
The growing incidents of mob attacks targeting security personnel in northern Nigeria represent a dangerous escalation in civil unrest with severe implications for national security. These violent confrontations—where angry crowds assault police officers, military personnel, or other law enforcement agents—signify a breakdown in the state’s monopoly on force and undermine the very foundations of public order.
Such attacks typically stem from deep-seated public frustration over perceived injustice, extrajudicial actions by security forces, or spontaneous reactions to security operations.
Analysts describe the security implications as multifaceted. The attacks are dangerous in that they erode the authority of state security institutions, encourage criminal elements, and create an environment of lawlessness.
According to Assistant Superintendent of NSCDC, Suleiman Garba, during an interview with The Journal Nigeria, “In a situation whereby citizens physically assault those mandated to protect them, it signals a complete collapse of the social contract between the state and its citizens.”
He added that such incidents compromise ongoing security operations, as personnel become hesitant to perform their duties for fear of public backlash. Mob violence against security forces sets a dangerous precedent that could inspire similar attacks across the northern part of the country, potentially leading to widespread instability.
It is noted that the escalation of mob violence against security can often lead to deadly cycles of violence, as security forces may respond with disproportionate force, further alienating communities and fueling resentment.
Researchers say that the psychological impact on security personnel is equally concerning, potentially affecting operational effectiveness and morale. From a strategic perspective, these attacks provide opportunities for insurgent groups and criminal networks to exploit the resulting chaos and weaken state authority.
Recently, a personnel of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) was attacked by a mob at Shuwarin Market in Jigawa State after being mistaken for an armed robber while attempting to make an arrest in mufti.
In May 2025, the Kano Police Command confirmed an attack on the Rano Police Division. According to reports, miscreants mobilized and attacked the division. Parts of the station and two vehicles were set ablaze, while 10 other vehicles were vandalized. The Divisional Police Officer (DPO) was seriously injured in the attack and later died at Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital.
In the same vein, in Gombe State, the DPO in charge of the Kwadon Police Division, CSP Adamu Alhaji Idi, was attacked by a mob, inflicting injuries on him. He was rushed to the hospital by the command to save his life.
Addressing this crisis, security analyst Hussani Baba said the situation requires immediate action on multiple fronts. Security agencies must review their engagement protocols to prevent actions that might trigger public outrage while maintaining operational effectiveness.
“Community policing initiatives should be strengthened to rebuild trust between security forces and civilians. The government must address the root causes of public discontent, including perceptions of injustice, unemployment, and lack of accountability for security force excesses.”
Without decisive intervention, mob attacks on security personnel may become a dangerous new normal in Nigeria’s security landscape—with potentially catastrophic consequences for national stability, he added.