A northern youth movement has called on the Inspector General of Police (IGP),Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun to take immediate steps in tackling security challenges threatening the safety of citizens across Nigeria.
Speaking to newsmen in Abuja on Friday, spokesperson Comrade Yahaya Muhammed Garba said the group was deeply worried about the rising tide of banditry and kidnapping that has left communities devastated and economies crippled.
He stressed that accountability for public officials and prompt investigations were crucial to restoring public confidence in state institutions.
In recent years, northern Nigeria has witnessed a surge in violent crime. Banditry and abductions have transformed once-peaceful towns into centres of fear. Families have been torn apart, businesses ruined, and thousands displaced.
The group said the psychological toll on victims was immeasurable, adding that the “spectre of violence looms large over daily life.”
Garba said “Kidnapping for ransom has become a lucrative trade for criminal gangs, the group warned.
” The result is a climate of dread where trust within communities erodes, investments dry up, and daily survival overshadows economic growth.
“The fabric of our society is being ripped apart. We must confront this menace with unwavering resolve.”
Nigeria’s security forces, the group acknowledged, have been fighting at the front lines but face overwhelming odds. Many lack equipment, manpower and adequate support.
“Our personnel are making huge sacrifices, often paying with their lives. As a society, we must rally behind them,” Garba urged.
The federal government has announced measures to counter the violence, including deploying additional forces, enhancing intelligence sharing, and promoting community policing.
” It is also rolling out social and economic initiatives aimed at tackling poverty and unemployment—seen as root causes of insecurity.”
While commending these efforts, the group insisted that decisive action from the police leadership was still required to restore faith in law enforcement.
“Accountability is vital for institutional credibility.
“Visible and timely responses from the police can deter misconduct and reinforce trust in our democracy.”
The group ended its address with a call for unity, urging Nigerians to stand together in the fight against violence.
“Together, we can build a safer and more prosperous Nigeria for all,” Garba said.
