Al-Hikmah University Journal

Ethnic disagreements and crises have become a persistent social dilemma in Plateau State, Nigeria. The phenomenon is usually responded to by mass deployment of security agencies to restore law and order in the area, and such often enhances ethnic solidarity and open confrontation between ethnic groups and policing agents in the line of duty. Previous studies have dwelled mostly on the causes and implications of cycle of ethno-religious conflicts in Jos, but no focus was accorded to influence of the conflicts on citizen-police collaboration in the study locality. This study was a paradigm shift investigating influence of ethnic cleavages on citizen-police interface in Jos Metropolis. Social Identity theory was adopted as underpinning orientation. Descriptive Research Design was employed as study blue print. Structured questionnaire tagged "Influence of Ethnic Cleavages on Citizen-Police Interface Questionnaire" (IECCPIQ) was used as data collection instrument. Law enforcement agencies, Community traditional institutions, Women and Youth Associations, Community Security Advisory Committees, and Academics constitute the study population. Descriptive statistical analysis was employed using calculated mean, standard deviation, frequencies and percentages, and presented in tables for decision making. Findings revealed that complex interactions exist among the various ethnic nationalities in Jos. Ethnic disaffection had significantly influence citizen-police collaboration in the area. Ethnic-based residency patterns in Jos have also impeded trust between police and citizens. Premised on the Key findings, the study recommended detribalized and accountable police framework. This would aid seamless navigation through complex sociocultural circumstances in Jos. A robust multi-ethnic education Programme be introduced in policing functions to foster trust between citizens and police. The study further suggested ethnic conflict merchants be well policed and deterred in all communities, using intelligence-oriented policing models. Policing agents should be encouraged to reside in the midst of other citizens for improved integration and synergy within the locality.