Kwara Varsity Don advocates use of AI robots to combat crime in Nigeria
From Taiye Joseph, Ilorin
A Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), and professor of law at Kwara State University, Malete, Prof. Abiodun Amuda Kannike, has urged Nigerian security agencies to adopt Artificial Intelligence (AI), technology and robotic software to enhance crime fighting across the country.
Speaking in Ilorin during a one-day workshop themed Incessant Kidnappings and Killings in Nigeria: The Role of Government vis-à-vis the Nigerian Constitution, Prof. Kannike stressed the need for a shift from traditional policing methods to digital intelligence-driven strategies to effectively tackle the growing insecurity.
“The time has come to equip our security personnel with electronic tools and artificial intelligence software, including robots, rather than relying solely on physical efforts to chase kidnappers. This will significantly improve their effectiveness,” he said.
The event, organised by the Department of Jurisprudence and Public Law, Faculty of Law, Kwara State University, drew participants from the judiciary, law enforcement, academia, and students.
Security chiefs in attendance included the Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Kwara State, Dr. Umar Mohammed; Deputy Commissioner of Police, DCP Idachaba Adamu; Controller of the Nigerian Correctional Service, Oyeniran Famuwagun; and the Director of Public Prosecutions in the Kwara State Ministry of Justice, Ayoola Akande.
Prof. Kannike lamented the widespread effect of insecurity on Nigeria’s economy, social cohesion, and political stability.
He called on Nigerians to support law enforcement with credible intelligence.
“Intelligence gathering is key. Citizens must assist security agencies with secret or direct information to help uncover and prosecute crimes. We all have a role to play,” he added.
He also called on the government to address youth unemployment, describing it as a critical step toward reducing insecurity.
In her presentation, Dr. Mariam Jimoh, former Dean of Law at Al-Hikmah University, echoed the need for broader access to socio-economic opportunities to dissuade criminal tendencies among citizens.
“Security is no longer the sole responsibility of government. Everyone must be involved by supplying the right information to help security agencies dismantle criminal networks,” she said.
Dr. Kafayat Olatinwo, Acting Head of the Department of Jurisprudence and Public Law, said the workshop was part of the faculty’s responsibility to contribute practical solutions to Nigeria’s security challenges.
She assured that recommendations from the event would be forwarded to relevant authorities for prompt consideration and action.