By: Daure David
In a shocking turn of events, Brigadier General I. Abdullahi recently expressed his gratitude to retired and serving Generals who contributed a staggering 180 million Naira to secure the release of Brigadier General Tsiga. This act of securing the release of one of their own has cast a troubling spotlight on the current state of security in Nigeria, especially under the leadership of the APC-led administration.
The fact that military officers—people entrusted with the defense and safety of the nation—are now resorting to paying ransom to kidnappers to secure their colleagues’ freedom highlights a severe breakdown in the nation’s security architecture. The Nigerian army, once regarded as a formidable force, appears to be powerless in the face of the ever-growing menace of kidnappings and violent crimes. This marks a disturbing shift in the country’s ability to protect its citizens, including those in positions of power.
Adding to the grave concerns surrounding security, the recent statements made by the Director of the Department of State Services (DSS) were both alarming and disheartening. In an unprecedented admission, the Director stated that the agency could not guarantee the safety of all citizens, casting doubt on the capacity of Nigeria’s security forces to protect its people. When the security apparatus itself acknowledges that it cannot ensure safety, it is a clear indication that the nation is in the throes of a security crisis that is becoming increasingly difficult to ignore.
It is deeply troubling that in Nigeria, no one seems safe, regardless of their status or position in society. The threat of kidnapping, armed robbery, and other forms of violence have permeated all levels of the nation—from the grassroots to the high offices of government and the military. This insecurity undermines the very fabric of the nation, instilling fear in the hearts of Nigerians and stunting the progress of the country.
The inability to guarantee the safety of citizens should be an urgent concern for all Nigerians, particularly the government. Citizens trust their leaders to provide an environment where they can go about their daily lives without fear of harm. However, when citizens are no longer confident in the ability of the state to protect them, it breeds an environment of lawlessness and chaos.
This growing insecurity demands immediate attention. It is essential that both the federal and state governments take proactive measures to address the root causes of violence and criminality in the country. The government must work towards improving the operational capacity of security agencies, ensuring they are well-equipped and well-trained to handle the evolving nature of crime. In addition, collaboration between the military, police, and intelligence agencies must be strengthened to create a unified response to the rising tide of insecurity.
Furthermore, there is a need for comprehensive reform of the justice system to ensure that criminals are held accountable. It is not enough to arrest offenders; the judicial system must be swift and effective in prosecuting them. Strong laws and justice systems will act as a deterrent to criminals, signaling that they will not operate with impunity.
The people of Nigeria deserve better. Security is a fundamental right, and no citizen should live in constant fear of abduction or violent attacks. The government must act swiftly to address this escalating crisis, and the military and security agencies must be empowered to restore order and stability.
As the country grapples with the dire state of security, it is important to remember that national security is not just the responsibility of the government; it is a collective effort that requires the cooperation of every Nigerian. Citizens must be vigilant and support law enforcement agencies in their efforts to maintain peace. Only through unity and determination can Nigeria overcome this security challenge and build a safer, more secure future for all.
In conclusion, the news of Generals paying ransom to kidnappers in Nigeria, coupled with the recent admission of the DSS that it cannot guarantee safety, should be a wake-up call to all Nigerians. The time to address this escalating security crisis is now. The safety of every citizen, regardless of status, should be non-negotiable. The government must act decisively to protect its people and restore confidence in the nation’s security framework. The security of life and property must never again be jeopardized.
