In the grand tapestry of governance, one thread stands out above all others – the welfare of the governed. It encompasses the bedrock principles of security, prosperity, and freedom from want. Yet, in Nigeria’s journey since independence, these pillars have too often crumbled, leaving behind a nation gripped by mutual suspicion, distrust, and the dark specter of violence.
We’ve heard the promises, and we’ve seen the ceremonies, but the grim reality paints a different picture. Nigeria is in the throes of an escalating security crisis, and the solutions presented to us are yet to yield tangible results. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in his new role as the head of the nation, faces a monumental challenge – the restoration of security and stability.
Recent events have cast a shadow over our land. On that fateful September night in the Catholic Diocese of Kafanchan, we witnessed the horrifying consequences of insecurity. A seminarian, Naaman Ngufe, lost his life in a senseless act of violence. Assailants targeted the rectory of St. Raphael parish, aiming to kidnap the Parish Priest. When their sinister plot was foiled, they set the house ablaze, leaving the priests to escape the inferno while Naaman Ngufe perished inside.
This tragedy raises painful questions about the state of security in our nation. Reports suggest that the assault endured for over an hour, yet there was no timely intervention from the military forces. A checkpoint merely a kilometer away stood as a silent sentinel, failing to react. It’s a narrative we’ve seen repeated far too often – the security forces arriving only after the damage is done, and the perpetrators have vanished into the shadows.
The Federal Government, in control of the levers of law enforcement, has issued directives that seem to fall on deaf ears, while local authorities impose curfews and offer empty assurances of safety. Elected officials lament the suffering from the safety of their fortified homes. It is a cycle of tragedy and reaction, a cycle that President Tinubu must break.
The Constitution of Nigeria is clear on the primary duty of government – the protection of lives and properties. It’s a duty that transcends political affiliations and personal interests. The new administration, from the highest echelons to the grassroots, must awaken to this solemn obligation. Drastic measures are needed to reduce the prevalence of vice, including the power of political thugs who undermine governance through their proximity to the powerful.
Every black spot, every motor garage, and every corner of our nation must be scrutinized and placed under the vigilant watch of security agents. The safety and security of every citizen must become paramount. This is the essence of democracy, enshrined in our Constitution.
President Tinubu, the time for action is now. You’ve declared that “security shall be the top priority of our administration,” and Nigerians hold you to your words. Prosperity and justice cannot thrive amidst insecurity and violence, as you rightly noted. The security and welfare of our people must be your guiding stars.
As Nigerians anxiously await a brighter future, it’s imperative that governance transcends empty rhetoric and leads to tangible change. Morning shows the day, they say, and in this new era, our leader must chart a different, result-oriented path. The welfare and survival of our people must be non-negotiable, for it is only through genuine governance that our nation can truly prosper.
