US Lawmaker Urges Tinubu to Review Security Leadership Amid Escalating Violence
A United States lawmaker, Kimberly Daniels, has publicly called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to conduct an urgent review of Nigeria's security leadership structure. This appeal comes in response to a significant surge in killings and abductions across multiple regions of the country, particularly during the recent Easter period.
Assessment Report Highlights Concerns Over Defence Minister
Daniels, who serves as the Chairwoman of the United World Congress of Diplomats, made this recommendation in a newly released assessment report examining the security situation in Nigeria's North-Central and North-West regions. The report, obtained by journalists, details several violent attacks that targeted worshippers in Plateau, Kaduna, and Nasarawa states during Easter 2026, resulting in numerous fatalities.
The report expresses specific concern about the continued role of Bello Matawalle as Minister of State for Defence. It cites allegations regarding his credibility and governance, including claims of links with armed groups during his tenure as governor of Zamfara state. Additionally, the document questions the strategic consistency in security management under his watch, suggesting these issues could undermine public confidence and weaken ongoing efforts to combat insecurity.
Recommendations for Immediate Action
The assessment urges the Nigerian government to undertake an immediate review of its security leadership. Among its key recommendations is the "removal or redeployment" of Matawalle to strengthen the integrity of the defence ministry. The report also calls for a transparent investigation into allegations of high-level complicity in banditry activities, alongside improved protection measures for vulnerable communities affected by recurring attacks.
Speaking on her position, Daniels stated that her recommendations were informed by direct appeals from Nigerians affected by the violence. "The position I take on this issue is because of citizens reaching out to me from Nigeria. My connection to Nigeria as a minister of the Gospel of Jesus Christ and the Chairwoman of UN-WCD would not allow me to be silent," she explained.
Allegations of Internal Complicity
Daniels further alleged internal complicity in some of the attacks, stating, "Based on the referenced report, the attacks against believers in Northern Nigeria are allegedly protected by leadership from the inside. The greatest form of terrorism a person can experience is terror that comes from 'homegrown familiar enemies.'"
The lawmaker also called on the United States government and international partners to increase diplomatic pressure on Nigeria to ensure accountability for those accused of aiding violence. She highlighted Nigeria's designation as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) by the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom, noting that this classification underscores ongoing concerns about religious persecution.
Recent Violent Incidents
In related developments, armed bandits attacked an ECWA church in Àaaaz-Kiri during a Sunday service, killing at least one worshipper and abducting several others. Additionally, gunmen carried out coordinated raids on Illai, Okeagi, and Jamroro communities, killing three persons and kidnapping residents in early morning attacks. These incidents illustrate the persistent and worsening security challenges facing the nation.
Daniels emphasized the importance of raising global awareness to address the crisis, adding, "Publishing this press release is the least thing I can do." She has sponsored a resolution condemning attacks on Christians in Nigeria and supports the country's continued CPC designation, urging concerted international action to tackle the escalating insecurity.
