SECURITY AGENCIES IN BENIN: Between vigilance, risks, and sacrifices, the grim daily life of night watchmen

Deployed throughout the country, private security services play a vital role in protecting people and property. This demanding profession, requiring constant vigilance, exposes those who practice it to numerous dangers: armed robberies, inclement weather, and many other nighttime risks. Yet, the general public is often unaware of the realities and sacrifices of these men who keep watch while the country sleeps. The newspaper Benin Best News went to meet them.

Being a security guard means, above all, accepting to disrupt one’s biological clock to guarantee the safety of businesses and homes. « Every 30 minutes, we have to get up, inspect the surroundings, and turn on the flashlight to deter potential burglars and show them that we are on the lookout. » “To put it simply, we don’t sleep at night,” confides Mr. Traoré, a security guard.

Beyond the human threat, nature itself presents its own set of challenges. The night watchmen must contend with the elements and unsanitary conditions. “In reality, at night, it’s God who protects us. We are constantly exposed to mosquito bites and the cold,” testifies Zimé Kora, another guard.

To face the unexpected, preparation is as much spiritual as it is practical. Whether they entrust themselves to God or invoke the Vodun deities according to their beliefs, these guards leave nothing to chance. “In addition to prayers, we have sticks, torches, and self-defense cartridges reserved for extremely serious situations,” explains Zimé.

In the field, effectiveness also relies on team cohesion and strategy. To maintain their focus and avoid becoming drowsy, some opt for a shift system. “Thanks to our vigilance and organization, we manage to keep the dangers at bay. We work in shifts: one hour of patrol followed by one hour of rest. This limits fatigue and allows us to remain effective,” explains Idrissou Iliassou. Traoré Kadri adds that the response is immediate: “As soon as someone behaves suspiciously or makes repeated trips back and forth, we approach and question them to remove them from the perimeter.”

Despite this high-risk work, these agents are not paid what they deserve. On top of that, there are sometimes hurtful remarks that undermine their dedication. “I’m not well paid, and sometimes my salary is late. But I’m here every night. The children who speak rudely to you, the boss who addresses you depending on their mood… It’s really not easy,” confides one security guard, speaking anonymously.

The work of private security agents is a public service that deserves recognition and respect. By accepting to be away from their families and sacrificing their health, these men remain indispensable guardians of our economic and social stability.

✍️ Christian AKPAKPA (Intern)

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