A former Rivers State Governor, Rt. Hon. Rotimi Amaechi, has called on President Bola Tinubu to take firm steps to address the rising insecurity across Nigeria.
Amaechi faulted the Federal Government for what he termed an absence of political resolve in stopping killings, terrorist activities, and mass abductions nationwide.
In a message shared on his X account on Wednesday, the former Minister of Transportation (2015–2022) stated that the government’s inability to safeguard Nigerians has strengthened terrorist groups and weakened public confidence.
He wrote that “the government has failed to provide adequate protection for its citizens, as evidenced by the surge in terrorist attacks and mass kidnappings in some parts of the country, challenging our national security.”
He added that “This failure to act decisively has sadly emboldened terrorists and eroded public trust.”
Amaechi highlighted several violent events recorded within one week, including attacks on residents in Plateau State; “the reported attack and kidnapping of secondary schoolgirls in Kebbi; an ambush on soldiers in Borno resulting in the abduction and killing of a Brigadier General, M. Uba; the attack on a church in Kwara; and the kidnapping of a priest, Rev. Fr. Bobbo Paschal, in Kaduna.”
He urged the government to improve military intelligence, enhance operational strategies, and ensure better protection for citizens and property.
Addressing the President, he stressed that “your primary assignment is the security of lives and property. Enough of looking the other way or issuing watery statements of condemnation.”
He further stated, “Prioritising a summit or jetting out for whatever reason when Nigerians are dying can never be the trait of a good leader.”
According to him, “It is time to probe wrong decisions, strategise, and make tough calls.”
Amaechi maintained that strong leadership, improved intelligence-sharing, and accountability are essential to resolving the current security crisis. He added, “We did it in Rivers State; it can be done in the country. We are prepared to help if you request help.”
His remarks follow a surge in violent attacks that have provoked national outrage.
In Kebbi State, armed men raided a high school early Monday, kidnapping 25 schoolgirls and killing at least one staff member.
On Tuesday, suspected bandits carried out two evening attacks in Eruku, Ekiti Local Government Area of Kwara State.
Armed assailants invaded the Christ Apostolic Church, Eruku branch, during a special service, firing shots and targeting worshippers. Reports indicate that three people were killed instantly, while the pastor and several congregants were kidnapped.
In Borno State, Islamic State West Africa Province militants ambushed troops on Friday, killing four soldiers, including Brigadier General Musa Uba, who was initially declared missing.
President Tinubu on Wednesday confirmed Uba’s death and denounced both the attack and the Kebbi school abduction.
