An Assessment of Unethical Work Behavior Among Police Personnel in Nigeria

Abstract

The Nigerian police force is an institution established to protect the lives and properties of residents. Some of her duties include tackling armed robbery, banditry, recovery of stolen assets, investigation of cases, and settling violence-related issues among persons. Just like every other institution, her operations are premised on certain ethical codes and conduct which guarantees checks and balances in her relationship with ordinary citizens. Maximum productivity can be achieved by the Nigerian police if only they display ethical behaviour in the discharge of their lawful duties to the public. Growing unethical work behaviour among Nigerian police officers has drawn attention to the various despicable and condemnable acts perpetrated by some personnel. This study makes a scholarly attempt to investigate the trend of the unethical work behaviour in the Nigerian police force. Using content analysis, the findings suggest that only a handful of Nigerian police officers display professionalism and ethical behaviour in the discharge of their duties.