DLA Chairman Demands Sweeping Police Reforms and Accountability Ahead of 2027

The National Chairman of the Democratic Leadership Alliance (DLA), Barrister Samuel M. Memeh, officially commenced the party’s campaigns and presented Certificates of Return to its candidates for the 2027 general elections on Thursday in Abuja.

During the event, Memeh delivered a robust call for urgent police reform, significantly improved security across the nation, and greater accountability within government operations, emphasizing these as critical priorities for Nigeria's future.

Memeh unequivocally condemned the persistent and alarming levels of insecurity plaguing the country, citing instances of killings, kidnappings, banditry, terrorism, and relentless attacks on farming communities as utterly unacceptable.

He asserted that all Nigerians have an inherent right to live, travel, work, and farm without the constantly living in fear.

To combat this pervasive insecurity, the DLA chairman outlined a comprehensive strategy. This includes advocating for intelligence-driven security operations, the strategic deployment of modern technology, enhanced training and equipment for security personnel, improved intelligence sharing among agencies, and robust accountability in the management of security funds.

These measures are designed to create a more effective and responsive security apparatus.

A cornerstone of the DLA's agenda is the comprehensive reform of the Nigeria Police Force. Memeh detailed the necessity for improved professional training, better welfare packages for officers, the provision of modern investigative tools, and effective supervision mechanisms to ensure a professional and citizen-focused police force.

Furthermore, the DLA supports the consideration of constitutionally safeguarded state policing as a complementary measure to address insecurity.

Memeh stressed that such an initiative must include adequate safeguards to prevent political abuse and meticulously protect citizens’ rights. He firmly maintained that reforming the existing police system and developing responsible state policing should not be viewed as mutually exclusive approaches, but rather as parallel and reinforcing efforts.

Turning to the economy, Memeh expressed profound concern over the escalating hardship confronting Nigerian households and businesses. He argued that all government policies must be rigorously evaluated based on their direct impact on citizens' lives.

Policies that contribute to rising living costs, a decline in purchasing power, and increased poverty, he insisted, must be urgently reviewed, with effective measures introduced to protect vulnerable Nigerians from economic distress.

The DLA chairman challenged the Federal Government to tangibly demonstrate how its economic policies would translate into affordable food, increased employment opportunities, the growth of productive businesses, and an overall improvement in living standards for the populace.

He articulated the DLA's commitment to supporting policies that advance the public interest, vigorously challenging those that cause avoidable hardship, and proactively proposing practical alternatives to current economic strategies.

A key economic shift advocated by Memeh is moving away from an excessive dependence on consumption and imports towards a robust focus on production, manufacturing, modern agriculture, renewable energy, science, technology, and innovation.

He highlighted that such a fundamental transition would be instrumental in creating significant opportunities for young Nigerians to acquire valuable skills, establish sustainable businesses, and make substantial contributions to national development.

Memeh also urged DLA leaders at all levels – national, state, local government, and ward – to adopt a proactive approach in addressing the specific challenges confronting their communities.

He emphasized that true political leadership extends beyond merely occupying offices and attending meetings; it necessitates actively identifying policy failures, clearly explaining their consequences to the public, and proposing credible, actionable solutions.

Addressing the party’s candidates, Memeh underscored that the Certificates of Return and party flags they received represented a profound responsibility rather than a personal entitlement.

He implored them to conduct peaceful campaigns, strictly comply with all electoral laws, present credible and well-articulated policies to the electorate, and engage voters respectfully.

He also called for unwavering unity and discipline within the party ranks, urging members to set aside internal rivalries and work cohesively towards their collective objectives for the nation.

In closing, Barrister Samuel M. Memeh reiterated that the DLA is steadfastly committed to building a Nigeria founded on responsible leadership, effective institutions, enhanced security, justice for all, and robust economic productivity.

He formally declared the party’s campaign season open, urging all Nigerians to critically assess the DLA's candidates based on the seriousness and viability of their proposals and the integrity of their actions.