Police brutality isn’t just about individual officers; it’s deeply rooted in societal attitudes and mindsets. An ideology that stirs up disregard, disrespect from a self-rooted thought/ idea embedded in us that, because we are this, then we are better than others.  If we truly want to end this problem, the first step is recognising that change begins in how we think and value one another.

Police brutality often results from a combination of factors, including systemic issues, societal attitudes, and individual misconduct/mindset. Some key reasons include:

• Systemic Racism and Bias: Deep-rooted prejudices can influence officers’ perceptions and actions, leading to disproportionate violence against marginalised groups., Our police are for the elite,e not for the masses in Nigeria.
• Lack of Accountability: When officers aren’t held accountable for excessive use of force, it fosters a culture where misconduct persists.
• Training and Policies: Inadequate de-escalation and community engagement training can lead to overreliance on force.
• Societal Attitudes: A society that tolerates or fosters disrespect, discrimination, or viewing certain groups as inferior can influence police behaviour.
• Power Dynamics: The authority given to police can sometimes be misused, especially when there’s an imbalance of power and a culture that discourages questioning authority. Focus on disrespect.

We need to foster respect and dignity for all people, regardless of their background or appearance. Police officers are part of our society—they reflect the norms and values we uphold. When society grooms men and women to see themselves as superior or value certain groups over others, it naturally influences how authority figures view and treat those they serve.

In many societies, especially where masculinity is intertwined with dominance, there’s an ingrained idea that some people, particularly women or marginalised groups, are inferior. This mindset can seep into the attitudes of law enforcement, leading to the abuse of power and disrespect.

To create real change, we must build a culture where respect isn’t reserved for a few—it’s a universal value. Respect for all individuals should be normal, not exceptional. When society values every person equally, the cycle of discrimination, prejudice, and violence begins to break down.

Respect makes society glow, and is the Foundation for Equality

Let’s look at he notion that women don’t respect men as part of this police brutality, which is often used to justify negative behaviours, but it’s a misplaced argument. Real respect isn’t something that can be demanded or achieved through conflict; it’s something that must be cultivated and ingrained in us all.

To foster genuine respect, we need to start early by teaching our children that respect isn’t based on gender, class,  status, or any external factor. Respect should be a universal value, something innate that we develop because every person deserves it, simply for being human.

When respect becomes part of our DNA—something we naturally extend to others—men and women alike will offer it effortlessly. It’s not about women or men “deserving” respect because of their actions or roles, but about understanding that respect is a fundamental human virtue.

If we focus on instilling this mindset in the next generation, creating a society where respect is automatic, then issues of disrespect, police brutality, misunderstanding, and inequality will diminish. Respect is the building block for a fairer, more compassionate world—let’s start training our children to honour everyone equally.

By shifting our collective mindset, redefining what we value, and promoting empathy and respect, we can address the root causes of police brutality and discrimination. Change starts with us—within our attitudes and the way we treat one another. Only then can we build a society where justice, dignity, and respect are truly for everyone, and then police brutality will end.