Coalition urges responsible commentary on national security

A pro-citizens advocacy organisation has urged the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and other political actors to adopt a more responsible tone when commenting on Nigeria’s security situation. The Citizens for Secure Nation (CSN), a civil society coalition focused on public safety and democratic accountability, made the appeal in Kaduna. Its president, Alhaji Musa Danladi Maikawa, […]

A pro-citizens advocacy organisation has urged the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and other political actors to adopt a more responsible tone when commenting on Nigeria’s security situation.

The Citizens for Secure Nation (CSN), a civil society coalition focused on public safety and democratic accountability, made the appeal in Kaduna.

Its president, Alhaji Musa Danladi Maikawa, said national security issues require careful, fact-based engagement rather than political confrontations.

He noted that public discussions on rising incidents of banditry, kidnapping and threats to schools should prioritise calm, accuracy and collective responsibility.

Maikawa stressed that while citizens and political parties have the right to express concerns, comments must be made in ways that promote public confidence and support efforts by security agencies working to stabilise affected communities.

“Our country is going through a difficult period. What we need is constructive engagement that supports ongoing efforts and encourages collaboration among all stakeholders,” Maikawa said.

He noted that recent rescue operations by security agencies reflect “intensified coordinated action across multiple theatres,” and said it was important for public commentary to acknowledge the complexities of security work.

The coalition cautioned that framing government actions or security measures in ways that may create distrust could unintentionally weaken community cooperation — a key component of counter-crime and counter-insurgency operations.

Maikawa also addressed concerns around temporary school closures in high-risk areas, saying the decisions were based on security assessments conducted jointly by relevant authorities. He added that both federal and state governments were implementing reinforcement measures around vulnerable schools to ensure safe learning environments.

“It is important to clarify that these closures are precautionary and temporary. Security is being scaled up so that teaching and learning can resume safely,” he said.

He urged political parties, including the ADC, to exercise restraint and demonstrate a collective commitment to national stability when making public statements on security.

“The lives of citizens should never be drawn into unnecessary political tension. We call on all stakeholders to support reforms, strengthen community-security collaboration, and advance practical proposals that help protect our people,” Maikawa said.

CSN added that it would continue to engage public institutions, monitor public communication on security matters, and advocate narratives that promote cooperation and public understanding of security efforts.