Factors Militating Against Nigerian Police Criminal Investigation: A Study of the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) Abuja

International Journal of Innovative Inventions in Social Science and Humanities ISSN(print): 3050-6921, ISSN(online): 3050-693X Volume 02 Issue 10 October 2025 DOI: 10.58806/ijiissh.2025.v2i10n07 Page No: 280291 280 Volume 02 Issue 10 October 2025 Corresponding Author: Bitrus Nathaniel Factors Militating Against Nigerian Police Criminal Investigation: A Study of the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) Abuja Bitrus Nathaniel Nigeria Society for Criminology ABSTRACT ARTICLE DETAILS The stability of Nigeria as a sovereign entity is under growing threat from escalating criminal activities; however, academic inquiry into the challenges confronting police criminal investigations remains insufficient. This gap contributes to widespread misconceptions and underestimation of the severity of threats posed by crime. This study investigates the factors militating against effective criminal investigation within the Nigerian Police Force, focusing on the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID), Abuja. The research assesses whether deficiencies in police criminal investigation contribute significantly to the escalation of crime in Nigeria, especially considering that previous state efforts to combat crime have yielded minimal results. The study employed a survey research design, drawing on both primary and secondary sources. A multi-stage sampling technique was used to select 306 respondents for questionnaire administration, while 10 informants were purposively chosen for in-depth interviews. The study is theoretically anchored on the functionalist and conflict perspectives of crime. Findings reveal several critical challenges: poor police-public relations, inadequate funding, political interference, and lack of consistent capacity building. These factors collectively undermine the effectiveness of police criminal investigations. The study recommends comprehensive police reform, including the restructuring of the FCID, public sensitization programs to foster mutual trust, and the continuous training and retraining of investigative personnel to improve competency and performance. Such interventions are vital for restoring public confidence and enhancing the operational efficiency of the Nigerian Police Force in combating crime. KEYWORDS: Nigerian Police, Criminal Investigation, Police Reform, Crime Control Published On: 17 October 2025 Available on: https://ijiissh.com/ INTRODUCTION Globally, internal security is considered a primary responsibility of the police. In most societies, the police are entrusted with the protection of lives and property, primarily through the prevention and detection of crime. Criminal activities can only be effectively addressed when the perpetrators are identified and brought to justice through a robust criminal investigation process. Societies with effective and efficient police institutions tend to enjoy greater peace, order, and development. Conversely, where police forces are weak or ineffective, insecurity, lawlessness, and societal instability prevail. An unstable society creates an environment ripe for chaos and anarchy, highlighting the need for a proactive, responsive, and professional police force capable of conducting thorough criminal investigations to foster public safety and peaceful coexistence (Ifeoma, 2020). The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) traces its origin to the colonial era. It was first established in Lagos in 1861, then the capital of Nigeria. John Beecroft, a British consul, initiated the formation of a police unit due to his overburdened responsibilities, which included maintaining law and order. In response to his request, the British government authorized the recruitment of 30 men into what was known as the “Consular Guard” to assist in performing police duties (Alemika & Chukwuma, 2004; Ozo-Eson, 2016). Over time, this colonial initiative evolved into the Nigeria Police Force we know today. However, the original purpose of the colonial police was not to protect the Nigerian populace but to safeguard the economic and political interests of the colonizers. As such, the colonial police were frequently involved in suppressing resistance and violently subjugating indigenous communities. This historical legacy continues to influence public perceptions of the police in Nigeria today, contributing to strained relations between law enforcement and civilians, as well as the persistence of internal corruption (Aina, 2014; Nwakanma & Amugo, 2018; Human Rights Watch, 2005). Factors Militating Against Nigerian Police Criminal Investigation: A Study of the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) Abuja 281 Volume 02 Issue 10 October 2025 Corresponding Author: Bitrus Nathaniel LITERATURES REVIEW The legal framework of the Nigeria Police is grounded in several statutes, including the Police Act of 1967 (as amended in 1985), the Criminal Procedure Code (CPC), and the Public Order Act. These provide wide-ranging powers such as arrest, detention, search, seizure, fingerprinting, granting bail, and even regulating public assemblies. For example, the Police Act empowers officers to investigate and prosecute criminal cases in court (Section 19) and grants authority to arrest individuals with or without warrants (Section 20–21), among other powers. Criminal investigation is an integral component of the criminal justice system. As former Justice Kalgo of the Supreme Court rightly noted, criminal investigation forms the bedrock of criminal proceedings (Idowu & Nwosu, 2021). The ability of the police to conduct effective criminal investigations is influenced by both internal and external factors. Internally, the police face issues such as corruption, lack of adequate training, low morale, poor welfare, and misconduct. Externally, they contend with poor funding, limited resources, political interference, and negative public perception (Yecho, 2004; Adebayo, 2013). According to Igbo (2017), the inefficiency of the Nigeria Police in managing criminal investigations poses a significant setback to the criminal justice system, as the police are pivotal to its effectiveness. The researcher’s interest in this study stems from the observation that, although numerous studies have examined various aspects of policing in Nigeria, few have addressed the specific factors undermining the effectiveness of criminal investigations at the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID), Abuja. Statement of the Problem Nigeria is currently experiencing an alarming rise in insecurity, marked by growing incidences of kidnapping, armed robbery, terrorism, banditry, and ritual killings (Ali, 2013). Despite constitutional mandates, the Nigeria Police Force has struggled to effectively prevent or investigate these crimes. Criminals operate with impunity, as arrests are rare and successful prosecutions even rarer. This breakdown in law enforcement capacity has made Nigeria a breeding ground for criminal activity (Nwachukwu, 2012; Adeyemi, 2001). The inability of the police to conduct thorough investigations has had grave consequences. For instance, terrorist groups such as Boko Haram have continued their activities largely unchecked. The mishandling of early Boko Haram leadership, particularly the extrajudicial killing of Mohammed Yusuf in 2009, is often cited as a turning point that exacerbated the group’s violence and contributed to the crisis in northeastern Nigeria (Ikeji, 2013). Similarly, the widespread kidnapping-for-ransom crisis, especially in northern states such as Kaduna, Zamfara, and Katsina, is a direct consequence of failed investigations and the failure to arrest and prosecute perpetrators (Alemika, 2013). The causes of this ineffectiveness are multifaceted. Scholars have identified factors such as inadequate training, lack of forensic tools, poor infrastructure, low morale due to poor welfare, lack of public trust and cooperation, and insufficient political will (Olly, 2014; Adeyemi, 2001). Former Inspectors General of Police, such as Ogbonnaya Onovo and Hafiz Ringim, openly acknowledged the shortcomings of the police in preventing and investigating crimes (Akasike & Abimbola, 2010; Chinwokwu, 2013). As Chinwokwu (2013) observed, the level of crime prevention in a society is directly related to the capacity of the police to investigate and prosecute criminal cases. Therefore, the persistent inability of the FCID to fulfill its investigative mandate calls for urgent academic inquiry and practical reform. Aims and Objectives of the Study The general objective of this study is to examine the factors militating against effective criminal investigation in the Nigeria Police Force, with specific reference to the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID), Abuja. Specific objectives include: 1. To examine how members of the Nigerian Police relate with the public during criminal investigations. 2. To identify the impact of the lack of capacity building within the Police Force on criminal investigations. 3. To assess the effects of poor police welfare on the performance of criminal investigations. 4. To investigate the specific challenges faced by the Nigeria Police during criminal investigations. THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK Understanding the complexities of police criminal investigations in Nigeria necessitates a theoretical framework. This study adopts Structural Functionalism and Conflict Theory to examine the institutional factors shaping police performance and investigative effectiveness. Structural Functionalism Structural Functionalism, associated with theorists such as Emile Durkheim and Talcott Parsons, views society as a complex system made up of interdependent institutions that work together to maintain stability and social order (Haralambos & Holborn, 2013). Within this framework, the police are a crucial societal institution responsible for enforcing law and ensuring order. Factors Militating Against Nigerian Police Criminal Investigation: A Study of the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) Abuja 282 Volume 02 Issue 10 October 2025 Corresponding Author: Bitrus Nathaniel According to this theory, dysfunction in one institution affects others. A poorly functioning police system, particularly in criminal investigation, can cause ripple effects across sectors such as education, health, and the economy. The EndSARS protests and the formation of regional security outfits like Amotekun underscore how breakdowns in police functions can destabilize broader societal structures. However, critics argue that Structural Functionalism often romanticizes harmony and fails to recognize institutional abuses, such as police brutality or corruption (Haralambos & Holborn, 2013). Conflict Theory Rooted in the works of Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels, Conflict Theory posits that society is characterized by continuous struggle between dominant and subordinate groups. In the context of Nigerian policing, the theory highlights how law enforcement institutions were designed to serve the interests of the ruling elite rather than the general public (Igbo, 2008; OzoEson, 2016). This historical foundation helps explain the alienation between police and citizens. The enduring colonial mentality, combined with institutional inequality, poor welfare, and a lack of resources, continues to impair the police’s ability to perform effectively (Alemika & Chukwuma, 2005). However, the theory’s focus on class struggles may overlook other crucial factors such as ethnicity, religion, or organizational culture. Theory Adopted For the purpose of this study, Structural Functionalism is adopted as the primary theoretical framework. It effectively explains the interdependence of institutions and the systemic consequences of police failure. The FCID plays a pivotal role in criminal investigation and national security; when it underperforms, the resulting dysfunction reverberates throughout society. Structural Functionalism enables the analysis of these institutional lapses and their broader implications for peace, order, and justice in Nigeria. METHODOLOGY This study employed a mixed-methods research design, integrating both quantitative and qualitative approaches to provide a comprehensive analysis of the factors hindering effective criminal investigations within the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID), Abuja. This section outlines the study location, design, population, sampling techniques, data collection methods, and analysis strategies. Study Location The research was conducted at the FCID Headquarters in Abuja, the central investigative arm of the Nigeria Police Force. Supervised by a Deputy Inspector General of Police, the FCID handles complex and high-profile criminal cases across Nigeria. It also oversees specialized units such as Homicide, Interpol, X-Squad, Forensics, and Anti-Human Trafficking. The selection of this location was based on its relevance to the research problem and the researcher’s familiarity with the institutional environment. Research Design A triangulated research design was adopted, incorporating structured questionnaires for quantitative data and semi-structured interviews for qualitative insights. This mixed approach enabled a deeper understanding of the institutional, interpersonal, and operational barriers to effective investigation. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, while qualitative data were thematically analyzed to complement and contextualize the numeric findings. This triangulation increased the study’s validity and reliability. Population of the Study The population included 1,649 officers serving at the FCID Headquarters. Only personnel with a minimum of three years’ investigative experience were included to ensure relevant input. Additionally, civilians who had interacted with the FCID during criminal investigations were included for qualitative interviews. Sample Size and Sampling Technique A sample size of 306 respondents was selected using Gill, Johnson, and Clark’s (2010) model, which applies a 95% confidence level, 50% population variance, and 5% margin of error. 𝑝 (100−𝑝) 𝑧2 𝐸2 n = Factors Militating Against Nigerian Police Criminal Investigation: A Study of the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) Abuja 283 Volume 02 Issue 10 October 2025 Corresponding Author: Bitrus Nathaniel Variance of the population P= 50% Confidence level= 95% Margin of error= 5 Population size 5 3 1 50 44 48 50 75 63 70 74 100 79 91 99 150 108 132 148 200 132 168 198 250 151 203 244 300 168 234 291 400 196 291 384 500 217 340 475 600 234 384 565 700 248 423 652 800 260 457 738 1000 278 516 906 1500 306 624 1297 2000 322 696 1655 3000 341 787 2286 5000 357 879 2288 10000 370 964 4899 25000 378 1023 6939 50000 381 1045 8057 100000 383 1056 8762 250000 384 1063 9249 500000 384 1065 9423 1000000 384 1066 9513 Source: Gill et al., (2010: 237, 238). A multi-stage sampling technique was employed: 1. Cluster sampling was used to select the FCID Abuja Headquarters. 2. Stratified sampling divided FCID into departments. 3. Purposive selection identified nine investigative sections: X-SQUAD, Terrorist Financing/General Investigation, Special Fraud and Financial Malpractice (PSFU), Interpol, Homicide, Legal, Forensic Science Laboratory, Central Criminal Registry (CCR), and Anti-Human Trafficking and Visa Fraud (AHTU/VF) 4. Simple random sampling was then used to select 34 respondents from each section. For the qualitative component, 10 key informants both FCID officers and civilians were purposively selected based on their direct involvement in police investigations. Methods of Data Collection Structured questionnaires captured data on demographics, police-public relations, training gaps, welfare issues, and operational barriers. Questionnaires contained both closedand open-ended items. They were administered face-to-face to ensure completeness and clarity. Semi-structured interviews were held privately, in English or local languages, depending on participant preference. Informed consent was obtained, and interviews were audio-recorded and supplemented with field notes. Method of Data Analysis Quantitative data were entered into SPSS for analysis. Results were summarized using frequency tables and percentages. Qualitative data were transcribed and analyzed through thematic content analysis to identify recurring themes that supported or explained the quantitative findings. Factors Militating Against Nigerian Police Criminal Investigation: A Study of the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) Abuja 284 Volume 02 Issue 10 October 2025 Corresponding Author: Bitrus Nathaniel DATA PRESENTATION AND ANALYSIS RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN POLICE AND MEMBERS OF PUBLIC IN CRIMINAL INVESTIGATION Relationship between Police and members of public in area of Criminal Investigation Relationship between Police and members of public in area of Criminal Investigation Frequency Percentage Cordial 39 12.9% Good 21 7.0% Fairly good 102 33.8% Poor 84 27.8% Very poor 56 18.5% Total 302 100 Source: Field Survey (2022). Findings from this Table indicate that the relationship between the Nigerian Police and the public is generally poor. While 33.8% of respondents described the relationship as fairly good, 27.8% rated it as poor, 18.5% as very poor, 12.9% as cordial, and only 7.0% considered it good. These figures highlight a significant trust deficit. Interview responses further reinforced this perception, with informants citing experiences of extortion, abuse of power, and unjust treatment for refusing to offer bribes: Police public relationship is very poor and it can never be good because of Police bad attitudes toward members of public unless they change, such as extortion, excessive use of powers, corruption, extra-judicial killing etc (interview 7 with informant). Another informant explained her ordeal with Police, she said: My experienced with Police made me not to have trust on police again, because i refused to give police bribe, they keep me for hours without giving me attention and when someone came to my aids, they claimed that I disrespect them which was not true (interview 3 with informant). These narratives align with Benjamin’s (2021) observation that public distrust in the Nigerian Police is driven by widespread misconduct, ultimately undermining cooperation crucial for effective criminal investigations. These responses show that, the relationship between Nigeria Police Force and members of the public is poor. Whether members of public have confidence or trust in Nigerian police Do you think members of the public have confidence or trust in Nigerian police? Frequency Percentage Yes 123 40.7% No 179 59.3% Total 302 100 If No, give reasons? Ineffective police performance 33 18.4% the structure of the force 32 17.9% bad attitude of some police officers 37 20.7% all of the above 41 22.9% Others 36 20.1% Total 179 100 Source: Field Survey (2022). Findings of this Table shows that 59.9% of respondents do not have confidence in the Nigerian Police Force, while only 40.7% do. Among those lacking trust, 22.9% cited a combination of ineffective performance, structural issues, and officers' misconduct; 20.7% blamed bad attitudes alone; 18.4% pointed to poor performance; and 17.9% to structural flaws, with 20.1% offering other reasons. Interviewees echoed these sentiments, describing the police as untrustworthy and motivated primarily by money. One informant remarked they wouldn't trust the police "even if it were a relative," emphasizing widespread distrust. Overall, findings confirm that public confidence in the Nigerian Police remains critically low: I don’t have confidence or trust on police even if the Police is my brother or sister, because they turn white to black in a tinkle of an eye (interview 8 with informant). Another informant had synonymous view; he asserted that: Nigeria Police are not to be trust, because they are after money only (interview 6 with informant). These response shows that, majority of members of public don’t have confidence or trust on members of Nigerian Police Force. Factors Militating Against Nigerian Police Criminal Investigation: A Study of the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) Abuja 285 Volume 02 Issue 10 October 2025 Corresponding Author: Bitrus Nathaniel THE IMPACT OF LACK OF CAPACITY BUILDING WITHIN THE FORCE ON CRIMINAL INVESTIGATION Importance of Capacity Building in Criminal Investigation Do you think Capacity Building is significant in Criminal Investigation? Frequency Percentage Yes 298 98.7% No 4 1.3% Total 302 100 If Yes, state reasons for your answer above? It makes police productive and effective 100 33.6% It enables police to investigate criminal cases very well 103 34.6% It enables police to use their discretion well 91 30.5% Because from the beginning police are to be properly trained 4 1.3% Total 298 100 Source: Field Survey (2022). This table result shows that, 98.7% of the respondents ticked Yes that Capacity Building is significant in Criminal Investigation, 1.3% of the respondents ticked No that Capacity Building is not significant in Criminal Investigation. In the same table, those that responded Yes further gave reasons as follows: 34.6% of the respondents said capacity building enable Police to investigate Criminal cases very well, 33.6% of the respondents said capacity building makes police productive and effective, 30.5% of the respondents asserted that capacity building enables Police to use their discretion well. However, 1.3% of the respondents who ticked No gave reasons that from the beginning police are to be properly trained. These responses show that Capacity Building is significant in Criminal Investigation. Significance Relationships between Police Capacity Building and effective Criminal Investigation Are there relationships between Police Capacity Building and effective Criminal Investigation? Frequency Percentage Yes 256 84.8% No 46 15.2% Total 302 100 If Yes, state your reasons It helps Police to know their duties 85 33.2% It helps Police to perform their duties effectively 81 31.6% It helps Police to conclude investigation logically 90 35.2% total 256 100 Source: Field Survey (2022). In this table, 84.8% of the respondents answered Yes that there is relationships between Police Capacity Building and effective Criminal Investigation. However, 15.2% of the respondents answered No, that there is no relationships between Police Capacity Building and effective Criminal Investigation. In same table, respondents who answered Yes gave reasons as follows: 35.2% of the respondents said capacity building helps Police to conclude investigation logically, 33.2% of the respondents said it helps Police to know their duties. However, 31.6% of the respondents said it helps Police to perform their duties effectively. This view further confirmed the assertion of Eugene & Paoline (2016) who pointed out that, educated Police officers that build their capacity have better attitude and approaches in discharging their constitutional mandate (duties), their daily commitment and evaluation of phenomenon related to their works differs with their counterpart pears who are less educated. These responses show that, there is Significance Relationships between Police Capacity Building and effective Criminal Investigation. Ways in which Nigeria Police Capacity can be build Ways in which Nigeria Police Capacity can be build Frequency Percentage Training and retraining of police 111 36.8% Encourage courses and workshops 73 24.2% Encourage further education 97 32.1% Adequate funding of Nigeria Police organization 21 6.9% Total 302 100 Source: Field Survey (2022). Factors Militating Against Nigerian Police Criminal Investigation: A Study of the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) Abuja 286 Volume 02 Issue 10 October 2025 Corresponding Author: Bitrus Nathaniel In this table, respondents were asked to suggest ways in which Nigeria Police Capacity can be build, 36.8% of the respondents said through Training and retraining of police officers, 32.1% of the respondents said Police management should encourage further education, 24.2% of the respondents said Police management should encourage attending of courses and workshops. However, 6.9% of the respondents said there should be Adequate funding of Nigeria Police organization by the Government. In a follow up interview, informant explained how Police capacity can be build, he said: Police capacity can be build through training and re-training programs, and also by allowing them to further their education (interview 4 with informant). These shows that Police Capacity can be built through Training and retraining of police officers, encouraging further education by police management, encouraging courses and workshops by police officers and there should be Adequate funding of police organization by the Government. THE EFFECT OF THE NIGERIAN POLICE POOR WELFARE PACKAGE ON THE POLICE CRIMINAL INVESTIGATION Rating Nigeria Police Officers Salary How can you rate Nigeria police Officers salary? Frequency Percentage Good 11 3.6% Very good 8 2.7% Poor 101 33.4% Very poor 182 60.3% Total 302 100 Source: Field Survey (2022). In this table, respondents were asked to rate Nigeria police Salary, 60.3% of the respondents said Nigeria police Salary is very poor, 33.4% of the respondents said Nigeria Police salary is poor, 3.6% of the respondents said Nigeria Police salary is good, 2.7% of the respondents said Nigeria police salary is very good. These responses show that, Nigeria Police Salary is poor compare to their counterpart in some countries. Availability of Police Barracks to the personnel of Nigerian Police Force How adequate are Police Barracks to the personnel of Nigerian Police Force? Frequency Percentage very adequate 0 0.0% Adequate 1 0.3% Inadequate 301 99.7% Total 302 100 Source: Field Survey (2022). Result from this table indicate that, 99.7% of the respondents asserted that Police barracks are Inadequate to its personnel, 0.3% of the respondents said Police barracks are Adequate to its personnel. This correspond with Famutimi, (2014) assertion who explained how poor stage of police barracks may be one of the reasons of unpleasant behaviors of the police to the members of public, to him a well sheltered man is happier man which pleasant behaviors is expected from him. Many police officers in Nigeria if not all are suffering from poor accommodation and remuneration. These responses show that Police barracks are Inadequate to members of Nigeria Police Force. Nigeria Police Retirees Pension How do you rate police retirees’ pension Frequency Percentage Good 2 0.7% Fairly good 9 3.0% Poor 113 37.4% Very poor 178 58.9% Total 302 100 Source: Field Survey (2022). In table 16, respondents were asked to rate Nigeria Police retirees’ pension, 58.9% of the respondents said police retirees’ pension is very poor, 37.4% of the respondents said police retirees’ pension is poor, 3.0% of the respondents said police retirees’ pension is fairly good. However, 0.7% of the respondents said police retirees’ pension is good. Factors Militating Against Nigerian Police Criminal Investigation: A Study of the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) Abuja 287 Volume 02 Issue 10 October 2025 Corresponding Author: Bitrus Nathaniel From the interview, an informant explained how poor is police pension, he said: Not only the Police but the issue of retirees pension in Nigeria is problematic, people will work for thirty five (35) years and will be given just a token as gratuity and pension and to even get it is another problem, but that of Nigeria Police is even the worse (interview 9 with informant). These responses show that, Nigeria Police Retirees’ Pension is one among the poorer pension in Nigeria. These responses show that, Nigeria Police Officers are not properly equipped for effective performance. Effect of Police poor welfare packages on officer’s performance How does the Police poor welfare packages affect Police Officers performance in Criminal Investigation duties? Frequency Percentage It leads to official corruption 92 31.7% It leads to compromise in investigation 81 28.0% It leads to poor investigation and performances 117 40.3% Total 290 100 Source: Field Survey (2022). In this table respondents were asked whether Police poor welfare packages affect officers’ performances in Criminal Investigation duties, 40.3% of the respondents said poor welfare packages leads to poor Criminal Investigation and performances, 31.7% of the respondents said it leads to official corruption, 28.0% of the respondents said it lead to compromises in investigation. These responses show that, there is a significant relationship between poor welfare packages of Nigerian Police Officers and ineffective performances in Criminal Investigation How to improve Nigeria Police welfare packages In what ways do you think Nigeria Police welfare packages can be improve? Frequency Percentage Good salary structure/allowance/remuneration 32 10.6% Properly equipped 31 10.3% Remove police from contributory pension scheme 13 4.3% All of the above 226 74.8% None of the above 0 0.0% Total 302 100 Source: Field Survey (2022). Respondents in this table were asked to mention ways in which Nigeria Police welfare packages can be improve, 74.8% of the respondents ticked all of the above that Nigeria Police welfare packages can be improve through Good salary structure/allowance/remuneration, properly equipped and Removal of Police from contributory pension scheme, 10.6% of the respondents said through Good salary structure/allowance/remuneration only, 10.3% of the respondents said police should be Properly equipped only. However, 4.3% of the respondents said Police should be remove from pension scheme only. An informant in an interview explained how police welfare package can be improved, he said: To improve Police welfare package is just a minor thing, government should pay Nigeria Police good salary and allowances like EFCC, CPC, NNPC, CBN, federal Inland Revenue etc. (interview 2 with informant). These responses show that, Nigerian Police welfare packages can be improved by given/paying them Good salary structure/allowance/remuneration like EFCC, CPC, NNPC, CBN, federal inland revenue and equipped Nigeria Police properly as well as removing them from contributory pension scheme. THE CHALLENGES FACED BY THE NIGERIAN POLICE IN CRIMINAL INVESTIGATION Sponsorship of cases reported by individual in Police formations Who sponsor cases reported by individual in the Police Station Frequency Percentage Individual themselves 250 82.8% Police Management 4 1.3% Government 27 8.9% Others 21 7.0% Total 302 100 Source: Field Survey (2022). Factors Militating Against Nigerian Police Criminal Investigation: A Study of the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) Abuja 288 Volume 02 Issue 10 October 2025 Corresponding Author: Bitrus Nathaniel Respondents in table 22 were asked to mention who sponsor cases reported by individual in the Police Station, 82.8% of the respondents said Individual themselves, 8.9% of the respondents said Government, 7.0% of the respondents had others view. However, 1.3% of the respondents said Police Management. Informant from the interviews explained how they sponsored cases themselves, they said: Government needs to do something about sponsoring of cases, because in Nigeria once you report a case you will be the one to sponsor that case to the end (interview 4 with informant). Another informant explained his ordeal, he said: My experienced with Police on sponsoring of case is terrible, do you know when I reported one case the police first asked me money for case file and later asked money for transportation to go and invite the suspect, after the invitation they asked me to pay money for mobilization fees to enable them do the work effectively (interview 10 with informant). In the same vein, a respondent said: To do case in Nigeria is capital extensive, if you don’t have money, you cannot do a case, many cases are swept under the carpet by the police simply because the complainant don’t have money to sponsor the case which Government are aware of it (interview 3 wit informant). This also validate the assertion made by Olusola (2015) that, in most instances, owners of cases or complaint are the once sponsoring/fund their cases under investigation, studies depicted how complainant sponsored/fund their cases. An organization or department that is poorly fund or sponsored suffers serious deficit and poor performances. These responses show that, majority of cases reported by individuals in the police station are sponsor by the individuals themselves. Problem of interferences in Criminal Investigation As an Investigation Police Officer, are you facing problem of interferences in investigating cases? Frequency Percentage Yes 292 96.7% No 10 3.3% Total 302 100 If yes, what are the categories of persons that interferes in your cases? Top government officials 97 33.2 % Politicians 81 27.7% Senior police officers 93 31.8% Prominent traditional rulers 21 7.2% Total 292 100 Source: Field Survey (2022). This result shows that, 96.7% of the respondents answer Yes that they are facing problem of interferences in Criminal Investigating of cases, while 3.3% of the respondents answered No. In the same table respondents who answered Yes were further probe to mention the categories of persons that interferes in their cases, 33.2% of the respondents said top Government officials, 31.8% of the respondents said Senior police officers, 27.7% of the respondents said Politicians, while 7.2% of the respondents said prominent Traditional rulers. Ways in which problem of interferences in Criminal Investigation can be control Suggest possible ways in which problem of interferences in Criminal Investigation can be control Frequency Percentage The post of IGP should not be decided by politicians 204 67.5% Interferences in criminal investigation should be incriminated by the law 67 22.2% Investigation Police Officers should be autonomous 31 10.3% Total 302 100 Source: Field Survey (2022). Respondents in this table were asked to Suggest possible ways in which problem of interferences in Criminal Investigation can be control, 67.5% of the respondents said the post of Inspector General of Police (IGP) should not be decided by politicians, 22.2% of the respondents said Interferences in criminal investigation should be incriminated by the law, while 10.3% of the respondents said Investigation Police Officers (IPOs) should be autonomous.