International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS) | Volume III, Issue VII, July 2019 | ISSN 2454–6186

Private Security Companies (PSCs) and the Regulatory Agency in Nigeria: Evidence from Ekiti State

Idowu, Olusegun Oladele

PhD Candidate, Institute of Peace, Security and Governance, Ekiti State University, Ekiti State, Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria

Abstract:- The complementary roles being played by the Private Security Companies in mitigating the security challenges confronting the nation have been seen by many security scholars as a welcome development. The deteriorating security situation and ever-increasing economic activities is likely to ensure a continued and expanding role for Private Security Companies in Nigeria, thus the study examine Private Security Companies (PSCs) and the Regulatory Agency in Nigeria: Evidence from Ekiti State, considering the importance of security governance on economic and sustainable development. The complementary role played by the activities of PSCs cannot be over emphasized hence the need for adequate regulatory and legal framework guiding the operations of PSCs for effective service delivery and public confidence on their operations. The study is a field survey research, both primary and secondary data were sourced.
Findings from the study revealed that licensing, regulation, monitoring and supervision of the activities of the PSCs are carried out by Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corp (NSCDC). However the study revealed that PSCs are not effectively supervised with 42% respondents agreed that NSCDC supervised PSCs monthly. The regulation of PSCs should be all encompassing, and not limited to licensing which is an aspect of revenue generation to the government. The perception of PSCs services by their clients/users/beneficiaries are adjudged effective in Ekiti State.

Keywords: Private Security Companies, Security, Regulation, Complementary, NSCDC

I. BACKGROUND TO THE STUDY

Security is a necessity in every developed and developing human society, as peace and security scholars have argued that security and safety of public/private life and properties are sine qua non for human existence, survival and development. According to Western tradition, the state, through its monopoly over the legitimate use of force, is responsible for the provision of security. Events in the 21st century have challenged the state powers and monopoly on security provision as individual safety and collective feelings of insecurity within the globe is at alarming rate.