Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, a former governor of Kano State, has issued a stark warning about a dangerous surge in violence and lawlessness across Nigeria. He is calling on the Federal Government to take immediate and decisive action to protect citizens.
A Nation in Peril: Key Security Incidents
In a statement made on social media platform X, the leader of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) pointed to several recent tragedies as evidence of a deteriorating security situation. He strongly condemned the abduction of 25 schoolgirls in Kebbi State, an event that painfully echoes the mass kidnappings that have previously horrified the nation and attracted global attention.
Furthermore, Kwankwaso highlighted the killing of Brigadier-General M. Uba by terrorists in Borno State. The senior officer was reportedly ambushed while carrying out his duties, marking one of the most significant losses for the Nigerian military in its prolonged fight against extremism. Kwankwaso described this event as a shocking failure in intelligence and operations that demands an urgent investigation.
Insecurity Spreads to New Regions
The former defence minister also raised the alarm about fresh mass kidnappings in Zamfara State, where armed criminal groups continue to raid rural communities and take dozens of residents hostage. He noted that the spike in bandit activities has now reached areas like Shanono and Ghari local government areas in Kano State. This indicates that the violence is no longer confined to traditionally troubled zones but is spreading into regions previously considered more stable.
While he acknowledged the Kano State Government's efforts, such as donating vehicles to security agencies, Kwankwaso stressed that these local initiatives require stronger support from the federal level to be truly effective.
Calls for Action and Systemic Reform
Kwankwaso argued that these incidents are not isolated but represent serious setbacks in the national battle against insecurity. He called for renewed investment in the armed forces and a broader strengthening of the Nigeria Police Force. He emphasized that frontline security units are overstretched and lack the necessary tools, intelligence support, and mobility to effectively deter attacks or respond quickly when they occur.
With the Nigerian military engaged on multiple fronts—from jihadist factions in the northeast to bandit groups in the northwest and separatist unrest in the southeast—the pressure is immense. Kwankwaso's urgent plea is for authorities to act decisively to prevent a further erosion of public trust and to reduce the growing humanitarian toll on vulnerable communities.
