Vivacious Development Initiative

PRESS RELEASE
FOR Immediate Release

May 14, 2026

RE: DISBANDMENT OF TIGER BASE AND INTRODUCTION OF THE VIOLENT CRIME RESPONSE UNIT (VCRU) IN IMO STATE

The Vivacious Development Initiative (VIDI) has noted reports announcing the disbandment of the anti-kidnapping unit popularly known as Tiger Base, alongside the Scorpion Unit and Lion Squad, by the Imo State Commissioner of Police, and the subsequent introduction of a new tactical unit known as the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU).

VIDI acknowledges this decision by the police authorities as a step that may reflect responsiveness to longstanding public concerns surrounding the operations of these tactical units and the growing demand for reforms within the policing system.

As an organisation committed to the protection and wellbeing of women, girls, children, and vulnerable populations, VIDI is also deeply aware that reported cases of abuse, intimidation, misconduct, and rights violations associated with some tactical operations over the years have had both direct and indirect effects on citizens. These impacts have included fear, trauma, weakened public trust, and increased vulnerability among already at-risk individuals and communities.

This development understandably reminds many Nigerians of the disbandment of SARS and the subsequent introduction of SWAT in 2020.

While structural changes may signal a willingness to address public concerns, the true measure of reform lies in the systems, oversight mechanisms, operational standards, and ethical conduct that guide the actions of officers within such units.

VIDI therefore sincerely hopes that this development will go beyond a mere change of name or operational structure and instead, usher in genuine institutional reform, one that would reflect professionalism, accountability, respect for human rights, transparency, and improved public trust in law enforcement.

We further call for:

* Strong accountability and monitoring mechanisms for the operations of the new unit;

* Continuous human rights, safeguarding, and citizen-centered policing training for officers;

* Professional and intelligence-driven policing that respects the dignity and rights of all citizens;

* Accessible and transparent complaint and response systems for victims of abuse or misconduct;

* Intentional efforts to rebuild trust and cooperation between law enforcement agencies and the communities they serve.

Security and human rights must not be treated as opposing interests. Effective policing is best achieved where citizens feel protected, respected, heard, and safe.

The people deserve to truly see and feel the difference.

Signed:

Onyinyechi Joy Nwosu
Executive Director, Vivacious Development Initiative (VIDI)
Email: [email protected]
Facebook | LinkedIn: Vivacious Initiative

On this Workers’ Day, we celebrate the strength, resilience, and invaluable contributions of workers across all sectors.

From teachers shaping minds, to health workers saving lives, to artisans, civil servants, caregivers, and informal workers keeping families and communities afloat … every worker matters.

At Vivacious Development Initiative (VIDI) affirms that decent work is a right, not a privilege. Workers deserve dignity, fair treatment, safe working environments, and policies that reflect international best practices.

Today, we call on government at all levels, employers, and policymakers to:

Strengthen labour laws and ensure effective enforcement.

Promote safe, inclusive, and decent work environments.

Ensure fair wages and social protection for all categories of workers.

Prioritise workers’ welfare as a pillar of national development.

Uphold international standards that protect human dignity in the workplace.
Because no nation can rise above the dignity it gives to its workers.

At VIDI, we remain committed to advocating for systems where every worker is valued, protected, and respected.

Happy Workers’ Day to every hand that builds, heals, teaches, serves, and sustains our society.

CONGRATULATIONS!!!🎉

As the Month Ends… The Work Continues

April has been a time to raise awareness on sexual assault.

We’ve highlighted:
• The realities
• The silence
• The gaps in understanding
• The importance of response

But awareness alone is not enough.

The need for clarity, safe spaces, and informed action remains.

As the month ends, the commitment continues.
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