Group urges greater transparency in fight against insecurity
The Convener of the NAIJA In SAFE Hands Project (NISH-P), Mr. Osabinu Olufemi, has called for greater transparency and accountability in Nigeria’s efforts to combat terrorism, banditry, and kidnapping. In a statement titled “The Ides of March: When Tragedies Become Political Omens,” Olufemi urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and demand answers regarding the country’s persistent […]
Osabinu Olufemi
The Convener of the NAIJA In SAFE Hands Project (NISH-P), Mr. Osabinu Olufemi, has called for greater transparency and accountability in Nigeria’s efforts to combat terrorism, banditry, and kidnapping.
In a statement titled “The Ides of March: When Tragedies Become Political Omens,” Olufemi urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and demand answers regarding the country’s persistent security challenges.
He referenced the 2014 abduction of schoolgirls in Chibok and the recent kidnapping incident in Orire, noting that both events occurred during periods of heightened political activity.
According to him, such incidents often intensify public concerns about security and governance.
“The purpose of asking this question is not to make accusations without evidence. Rather, it is to encourage vigilance and critical thinking among Nigerians,” Olufemi said.
He stressed that national tragedies should not be exploited for political purposes and urged citizens to remain focused on broader issues of governance and national development.
“This is why Nigerians must resist every attempt to convert human suffering into political capital,” he stated.
Olufemi also called for increased transparency from security institutions, including the Office of the National Security Adviser, the Directorate of Military Intelligence, the Department of State Services, the Nigeria Police Force, and the Office of the Chief of Defence Staff.
“The Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA), the Directorate of Military Intelligence (DMI), the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), and the Office of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) should be mandated by the appropriate constitutional authorities to provide a comprehensive account of the fight against terrorism, banditry, and kidnapping across the country,” he said.
He further urged authorities to intensify efforts to identify and prosecute individuals found to be aiding criminal activities.
“More importantly, every effort should be made to identify, investigate, expose, and prosecute local collaborators, financiers, informants, and facilitators whose actions sustain insecurity and endanger innocent lives,” Olufemi added.
The NISH-P convener said restoring public confidence would require continued action against criminal networks as well as greater openness regarding efforts being made to address insecurity.
He maintained that Nigerians have a right to demand accountability from public institutions and called for sustained commitment to protecting lives and strengthening democratic governance.