‘Security Is Everyone’s Business’— Group Plans Abuja Road Walk, Seeks National Unity

A civil society group, Concerned Nigerians for Peace, Security and National Unity, has announced plans to stage a peaceful road walk in Abuja on Monday to mobilise support for collective action against insecurity and promote national unity.

The group said the security situation across the country requires all Nigerians, irrespective of political, religious and ethnic affiliations, to unite in confronting the challenges posed by terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other violent crimes.

In a statement signed by its Convener, Comrade Isah Abubakar , on Thursday and made available to journalists in Abuja, the group stressed that security should not be left to government alone, insisting that every citizen has a role to play in safeguarding the nation.

Abubakar said the planned road walk would serve as a platform to draw national attention to the urgent need for collaboration among citizens, community leaders, traditional rulers, religious organisations and political actors in addressing the country’s security concerns.

He noted that insecurity had evolved over the years from the Boko Haram insurgency in parts of the North-East to widespread incidents of banditry, kidnapping, farmer-herder clashes and other criminal activities affecting several parts of the federation.

“What began as the Boko Haram insurgency in parts of the North-East during previous administrations gradually expanded to include banditry, kidnapping, farmer-herder conflicts and other violent crimes across several regions of the federation,” he said.

According to him, insecurity is no longer confined to any particular state, region, religion or political party, as citizens across the country continue to grapple with different forms of security threats.

“The reality is that terrorism, banditry and kidnapping do not discriminate. Their victims cut across political parties, religious groups, ethnic backgrounds and social classes,” he added.

The group called on leaders across political parties to put aside partisan interests and work together towards a common national agenda aimed at defeating insecurity.

It also urged former Heads of State, former military leaders, serving political office holders and other stakeholders to contribute ideas, experience and strategic solutions capable of addressing the nation’s security challenges.

Okai further appealed to religious leaders to intensify efforts in preaching peace, tolerance and respect for human life while speaking strongly against terrorism, kidnapping, banditry and violent extremism.

He said communities must remain vigilant and support lawful measures designed to identify and isolate criminal elements operating within society.

The group also encouraged Nigerians to participate in peaceful advocacy campaigns, awareness programmes and lawful demonstrations aimed at sustaining national conversations on security and public safety.

“The time has come for all Nigerians to speak with one voice against insecurity. This is not a fight for any government, political party or individual. It is a fight for our collective future, national stability and the protection of innocent citizens,” Abubakar stated.

He warned against attempts to politicise insecurity for partisan advantage, saying the safety and survival of the nation should take precedence over political differences.

“At a time when criminal elements are threatening the peace and stability of the country, Nigerians must come together to support efforts aimed at restoring security and protecting innocent lives.

“Security is everybody’s business. While government agencies and security forces have a constitutional responsibility to maintain law and order, citizens, community leaders, traditional rulers, religious leaders and civil society organisations also have critical roles to play.

“No government alone can successfully defeat insecurity without the active cooperation and support of the people,” he said.

What do you think about this?
Drop your opinion in the comment section.
FOLLOW US & Share this with someone who needs to see this.