Harry Archie
The presidential candidate of the Peter Obi has criticised the security approach of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, saying Nigeria needs a more comprehensive plan to tackle insecurity.
In a statement titled “What Our Pervasive Insecurity Requires: A Holistic, Not Reactive Approach,” Obi said the government’s recent approval of about 1,000 forest guards for Oyo State shows a piecemeal approach to solving security problems.
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According to Obi, recruiting more security personnel is important, but such actions should be part of a clear national security strategy rather than isolated decisions.
He compared the move to the removal of fuel subsidy and the devaluation of the naira, arguing that poorly planned government policies have increased hardship for Nigerians and damaged the economy.
Obi said insecurity affects almost every part of the country, mentioning Plateau State, Kwara State, Kogi State, Borno State, Katsina State, Anambra State, Niger State, Imo State and Sokoto State as states facing serious security challenges.
He questioned whether the approval given to Oyo State would also be extended to all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory or if such decisions were being made selectively.
Obi also expressed concern about how the plan might affect existing regional security groups such as the Amotekun Corps.
The former governor of Anambra State blamed the country’s insecurity on leadership failures.
He claimed that more than 10,000 Nigerians have been killed since 2023 due to insecurity.
According to Obi, solving the problem requires an “ecosystem approach” that combines security efforts with good governance, economic growth, job creation, youth empowerment and social stability.
He argued that poor leadership has affected national unity and slowed development in sectors such as agriculture, tourism, mining, industry, sports, and oil and gas.
Despite the challenges, Obi said he remains hopeful that Nigeria can become more secure and prosperous under effective leadership.
