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Ikiodiete George
- 3 Min Read
Nigerian Vigilante Group: Their Roles & Responsibilities
The Nigerian Vigilante Group (VGN) plays a vital role in grassroots security and community protection. With rising insecurity in many rural and semi-urban areas, the presence of vigilante groups has become a trusted line of defense for many Nigerians.
Even though they are not formal police officers, these brave men and women put their lives on the line to protect lives and property, especially in areas where conventional security presence is limited or unavailable.
In this article, we’ll look into the official roles, functions, and responsibilities of the Nigerian Vigilante Group.
What is the Nigerian Vigilante Group?
The Vigilante Group of Nigeria (VGN) is a community-based volunteer security outfit established to assist the police and other law enforcement agencies in combating crime at the local level.
Registered under the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) and recognized by several state governments, the VGN operates as a paramilitary grassroots security agency, with its members drawn from local communities.
Official Roles & Responsibilities of the Nigerian Vigilante Group
Here are the key functions the VGN performs across various communities in Nigeria:
1. Neighborhood Watch & Community Policing
The primary responsibility of the VGN is to monitor neighborhoods and rural areas for suspicious activity. Because they live in the same communities they protect, they can easily identify strangers, monitor local criminal activity, and alert authorities quickly.
2. Crime Prevention & Arrest Assistance
Members of the vigilante group assist the police in:
- Apprehending criminals
- Conducting patrols at night
- Dismantling local gangs and drug spots
- Preventing robberies and cult clashes
Although they don’t have the legal power to prosecute, they often hand over suspects to the police for investigation.
3. Securing Schools, Markets & Public Events
In many communities, VGN officers are hired to provide security for public institutions and events such as:
- Churches and mosques
- Traditional festivals
- Market days
- Town hall meetings
- Schools and examination centers
4. Resolving Minor Disputes
They often help in settling local disputes among residents—whether it's land matters, family issues, or neighborhood quarrels. This reduces the burden on police stations and helps maintain peace in rural communities.
5. Supporting Security Agencies
The VGN works closely with:
- Nigeria Police Force
- Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC)
- Amotekun (in the Southwest)
- Local Government Vigilante Committees
They serve as first responders in many emergency cases, especially in remote areas where it may take hours for formal agencies to arrive.
6. Rescue & Emergency Operations
During crises like bandit attacks, kidnapping incidents, or floods, vigilante members are often the first on the ground to:
- Rescue victims
- Provide local intelligence
- Guide law enforcement through difficult terrain
FAQs
1. Is the Nigerian Vigilante Group legal?
Yes, they are registered and recognized in several states as a community-based security group, although not part of the federal security architecture.
2. Can vigilante members carry guns?
No. They are usually equipped with non-lethal tools like batons, cutlasses, whistles, and sometimes licensed hunters’ rifles (depending on state regulations).
3. How are they paid?
Most vigilante members are volunteers. Some are paid stipends by local governments or through community contributions.
4. What is the difference between VGN and Amotekun?
Amotekun is a regional security outfit for the Southwest states and operates under a legal framework. VGN operates nationally but is more grassroots-focused and not yet backed by federal law.
Conclusion
The Nigerian Vigilante Group remains a frontline defender of many rural and urban communities, especially where formal security is stretched thin. Their deep knowledge of local terrain and people makes them highly effective in preventing crime and supporting emergency response. While their operations may not be as polished as formal agencies, their presence has saved lives and properties countless times. For better national security, there’s a growing need to recognize, regulate, and empower vigilante groups through proper training, tools, and integration with law enforcement.
