The Nigerian Movement for Actionable Change (NMFAC) took their demands for national security directly to the heart of Nigeria's legislative power on Wednesday, staging a peaceful but urgent protest at the National Assembly complex in Abuja.
Protesters Demand Immediate Action on Security Crisis
Dozens of concerned citizens marched with placards bearing powerful messages that reflected the growing national anxiety over security. The inscriptions included "Restore Security in the 36 States," "Release the 253 Abducted Pupils," and "Stop Negotiations with Bandits." Other signs called for a "Declaration of State of Emergency on Insecurity" and demanded the government "Secure Our Borders Now."
The protest came amid escalating security challenges across multiple states, with the group highlighting the specific case of the 253 pupils still missing after their abduction from a Catholic school in Niger State. While acknowledging the successful rescue of 24 schoolgirls by security agencies, the protesters emphasized that hundreds remain in captivity.
Complete Rejection of Terrorist Negotiations
Addressing journalists during the demonstration, Convener Faisal Sanusi Ibrahim was unequivocal in the group's position regarding government engagement with criminal elements. "We say a complete NO to negotiations with terrorists," he declared, emphasizing that these were the same individuals who have made life unbearable for countless Nigerians.
Ibrahim described the protest as a constitutional exercise and a collective call for national safety, lamenting that "no state is safe, no person is safe" in the current climate. He stressed the critical need for unity in confronting the security problem, warning against framing the crisis along religious or tribal lines.
The movement also called for better equipment and enhanced firepower for Nigerian armed forces, noting that many soldiers are overwhelmed by the superior weapons used by criminal groups operating across the country.
Daily Life Becoming Increasingly Dangerous
Ibrahim painted a grim picture of the practical realities facing ordinary Nigerians, stating that "travelling by road is no longer safe, not for me, not for you, not even for the security agencies." He highlighted how flying has transitioned from luxury to necessity for safe travel, yet remains unaffordable for approximately three-quarters of the population who must risk dangerous road journeys.
The convener pointed to recent kidnappings as evidence of the spreading violence, noting that "ten people were kidnapped in Kwara yesterday, another ten in Kano yesterday." He described these attacks as "sporadic and frightening," emphasizing that citizens cannot afford to remain passive while the government considers negotiations with terrorists.
NMFAC represents a coalition of different pressure groups united to speak out on national challenges and shortcomings. Their clear demands include the full restoration of security across all 36 states, declaration of a state of emergency on insecurity, and the immediate rescue of all abducted citizens.
