On incessant insecurity in Nigeria

Over the course of the past 20 years, Nigeria has grappled with a plethora of formidable challenges that have left the nation in a state of perpetual turmoil. These multifaceted issues have spanned from the lingering scars of the civil war, the menacing presence of Boko Haram, the scourge of banditry and kidnapping, the dark […]

On incessant insecurity in Nigeria

Over the course of the past 20 years, Nigeria has grappled with a plethora of formidable challenges that have left the nation in a state of perpetual turmoil.

These multifaceted issues have spanned from the lingering scars of the civil war, the menacing presence of Boko Haram, the scourge of banditry and kidnapping, the dark underbelly of ritualistic practices, the unsettling waves of ethnic conflicts, to the tumultuous landscape of political controversies. It is imperative for the government to explore all viable avenues to quell the unrest that has taken root among the Nigerian populace.

One compelling proposal that has garnered widespread support is the engagement of retired military and security personnel in the quest for a lasting solution to Nigeria’s persistent unrest. These seasoned veterans possess a wealth of experience garnered over decades of service to the nation.

Their knowledge and expertise should not be relegated to the annals of history but rather harnessed in the ongoing efforts to unravel the complex puzzle that is Nigeria’s socio-political landscape.

Numerous prominent figures within the public sphere have voiced their resounding endorsement of this recommendation, urging the federal government to heed the call.

The time, it would seem, has come for the government to seriously consider this perspective and take decisive action.

Indeed, these retired security personnel constitute a valuable resource that should not be overlooked. Their insights, honed through years of dedicated service, could potentially hold the key to mitigating the calamitous events that continue to plague the nation.

Yet, it is disheartening to observe that the government has thus far neglected to actively seek out the best possible solutions to these pressing issues.

The words of former Governor of Abia State, Senator Orji Ozor Kalu, resonate deeply in this context: “If the problems you have this year are the same problems you had last year, then you are not a leader. You are rather a problem on your own that must be solved.”

These words serve as a stark reminder that the leadership of the nation must evolve and adapt in the face of unrelenting challenges.

The alarming and heartbreaking reality of patriotic Nigerians falling victim to gruesome massacres cannot be allowed to persist unchecked.

It is incumbent upon the government to explore all avenues, including the invaluable insights of retired security personnel, in its pursuit of peace, stability and security for the nation.

Indeed, the time for action is now, for enough is enough, and the people of Nigeria deserve respite from the unending spectre of violence and insecurity that has haunted them for far too long. 

 

Ibrahim Abubakar, Department of Mass Communication, University of Maiduguri