SECURITY FIRST: A CALL FOR GOVERNMENT ACTION
For years, Nigerians have demonstrated remarkable resilience in the face of hardship. Inflation soared, and we adjusted. Fuel prices increased repeatedly, and we adjusted. The cost of living became unbearable, and we adjusted.
Now, insecurity has become the latest challenge confronting citizens across the country.
The question is: must Nigerians continue adapting to every crisis?
Across communities, fear and uncertainty have become part of daily life. Many ordinary Nigerians leave their homes each morning unsure of what the day may bring. Parents send their children to school with silent prayers, hoping they return safely. Workers travel to their places of business wondering if they will make it back home to their loved ones.
This is not the reality citizens should be forced to endure.
Recent reports of kidnappings, particularly involving schoolchildren and teachers, have once again highlighted the urgent need for stronger security measures. Children who should be focused on learning are instead subjected to fear and trauma, while their families endure agonizing days and sleepless nights waiting for their safe return.
The growing boldness of criminal elements is equally concerning. Kidnappers now openly demand huge ransoms, often running into hundreds of millions of naira, from families who can barely afford their daily needs. For struggling farmers, petty traders, widows, pensioners, and low-income earners, such demands are not only unrealistic but deeply cruel.
At the same time, many Nigerians are questioning the priorities of those entrusted with leadership. While political activities and preparations for future elections continue to gather momentum, citizens are increasingly concerned about their safety and security.
The primary responsibility of any government is the protection of lives and property. Without security, economic growth becomes difficult, education suffers, businesses struggle, and communities remain trapped in fear.
As discussions about the 2027 elections gradually emerge, Nigerians must not lose sight of the issues that directly affect their daily lives. Security should not be treated as a campaign promise alone; it must be a continuous and urgent commitment.
This is a moment for citizens to demand accountability and for leaders to demonstrate decisive action. The fight against insecurity requires stronger intelligence gathering, improved law enforcement capacity, community engagement, and sustained political will.
Mr. President and all relevant authorities must place the safety of Nigerians at the top of the national agenda. A nation where citizens live in constant fear cannot achieve its full potential.
Nigerians deserve more than survival. They deserve peace, safety, and the freedom to pursue their dreams without fear.
The time to act is now. Insecurity must never become another national problem that citizens simply learn to live with.
Written by: ✍️ Julius Precious
