JUST IN: Kwankwaso raises alarm over rising insecurity, calls for overhaul of security architecture

Politics

ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — Vice Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has expressed deep concern over the worsening security situation across the country, warning that escalating violence and criminal activities are threatening lives, livelihoods, and national stability.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the former Kano State Governor said Nigeria was witnessing a disturbing resurgence of insecurity, with banditry, kidnapping, terrorism, communal clashes, and armed robbery becoming increasingly widespread in several parts of the country.

According to him, states including Zamfara, Borno, Sokoto, Katsina, Kwara, and Oyo have continued to experience varying degrees of insecurity, leaving many citizens living in fear.

“Nigeria is bleeding profusely. From Zamfara, Borno, Sokoto, Katsina, and Kwara to Oyo and several other parts of the country, our citizens can no longer sleep with both eyes closed,” Kwankwaso said.

He described as alarming the growing boldness of criminal groups, alleging that some now use social media platforms to openly taunt security agencies and spread fear among the public.

The former Minister of Defence said the trend was unacceptable and inconsistent with the status of Nigeria as a sovereign nation.

Drawing from his experience in public service, Kwankwaso said insecurity can be effectively tackled through decisive leadership, strategic planning, and community participation.

“As someone who has served this country at various levels, including as Governor of Kano State and Minister of Defence, where we confronted and significantly reduced security challenges through decisive leadership and community engagement, I remain convinced that insecurity is not insurmountable,” he stated.

He argued that the country possesses the resources required to combat insecurity but lacks the political will and sincerity needed to address the challenge comprehensively.

Kwankwaso criticised the current security strategy, saying the persistent deterioration in the security situation despite significant budgetary allocations to the sector suggests the need for a new approach.

According to him, continued attacks across the country have resulted in loss of lives, displacement of thousands of people, and growing economic hardship caused by fear and instability.

He called for an urgent and comprehensive overhaul of Nigeria’s security architecture, including improved welfare for security personnel, enhanced intelligence gathering, and stronger community policing initiatives.

The NDC vice presidential candidate also stressed the need to address the underlying causes of insecurity, including poverty, unemployment, poor governance, and lack of opportunities for young people.

He urged the government to increase investment in quality education, skills acquisition, job creation, healthcare, infrastructure, electricity supply, and agricultural development as part of a long-term strategy for national security and economic stability.

Kwankwaso maintained that strengthening local food production and improving socioeconomic conditions would help reduce vulnerabilities that often fuel insecurity and social unrest.