In a firm and decisive statement issued from Abuja on Monday, the Nigeria Police Force has dismissed circulating rumors about the reformation of the dissolved notorious Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS). Force Public Relations Officer ACP Muyiwa Adejobi declared in a press release titled “Disclaimer: SARS Remains Dissolved” that SARS—disbanded on October 11, 2020—remains permanently dissolved, and any reports suggesting its return under reformed rules are entirely unfounded.
“This is to categorically state that the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) is not back in operation. The recent information regarding SARS reformation and rules of engagement should be treated with caution,” Adejobi said, urging Nigerians to verify news from credible sources. He further advised citizens to follow the Nigeria Police Force’s official social media accounts—@PoliceNG on X, @ngpolice on Facebook, and @nigeriapoliceforce on Instagram—to receive accurate and timely updates.
The statement comes amid lingering public concern and widespread speculation about the potential reactivation of SARS, a unit that became infamous for allegations of extrajudicial killings, arbitrary arrests, and abuse of power. SARS was disbanded in 2020 after months of mass protests under the EndSARS movement, which saw Nigerians demand an end to police brutality and corruption. The movement, which garnered international attention, ultimately forced the government to take decisive action against the unit.
While some circulating narratives have hinted at possible reforms or even a revival of SARS under new operational guidelines, ACP Adejobi’s message makes it clear that the decision to disband the unit was final. “We had no N5m bribe for SARS, so I spent 10 Years in jail,” he stated—referring to allegations that had circulated about corruption tied to the unit’s activities. This remark, while controversial and debated in some quarters, was used to underline the commitment of the current police leadership to uphold ethical standards and prevent any resurgence of the practices that led to SARS’s dissolution.
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However, the government’s stance on SARS is part of a larger narrative on police reform in Nigeria. Many human rights groups and civil society organizations continue to call for comprehensive reforms within the Nigerian Police Force. Critics argue that while the dissolution of SARS was a significant step forward, it is insufficient on its own. There is a growing consensus that the police force must undergo a structural overhaul to address deeply entrenched issues such as abuse of power, lack of accountability, and corruption.
“Your safety and awareness are paramount; stay informed and vigilant,” Adejobi concluded, emphasizing that the responsibility for safeguarding human rights and ensuring justice does not end with the dissolution of one problematic unit. Instead, it marks a turning point in the nation’s ongoing struggle to reform its security institutions.
In recent years, the disbandment of SARS has sparked a series of debates on how best to transform the country’s security apparatus. Many experts believe that true reform requires not only the elimination of abusive units but also the implementation of rigorous oversight, transparent practices, and community engagement in policing. The Nigerian government is now under pressure to rebuild public trust through concrete measures such as enhanced training for officers, stricter disciplinary protocols, and a reimagined approach to community policing.
The recent official statement serves as a reminder that while old abuses may haunt the past, the focus must now shift to building a professional police force that respects human rights. The disbandment of SARS was not merely a reaction to public outcry—it was also an acknowledgment by the government that systemic reform is needed to restore the dignity and effectiveness of Nigeria’s law enforcement.
The Police Force’s clear message that SARS remains dissolved provides a measure of reassurance to citizens. Yet, many remain watchful, calling on the government to follow up with robust reforms that address not just the legacy of SARS, but the broader challenges facing Nigerian security agencies. The Police’ commitment to transparency and public engagement is a critical step in this process. By urging citizens to rely on verified sources and official channels for updates, the police leadership is fostering an environment where misinformation can be challenged and accurate information upheld.
