Why Nigerians must join security agencies, govt to fight insecurity — Abdulsalami Abubakar

Former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar (retd.), has said every Nigerian has a stake in the fight against insecurity, stressing that defeating terrorism and other criminal activities requires citizens to join hands with security agencies and government at all levels.

Abubakar made the appeal in a statement released on the occasion of his 84th birthday, where he reflected on the state of the nation and expressed concern over the worsening security situation across the country.

The former military leader said the recent death of Major General Abubakar Rabe (retd.) and many other Nigerians affected by insecurity underscored the urgency of collective action to restore peace and stability.

According to him, his years of service in the Nigerian Armed Forces, including participation in the Nigerian Civil War and peacekeeping operations abroad, have given him a deep understanding of the sacrifices required to protect the nation.

While acknowledging that many countries are facing economic and security difficulties, he noted that Nigeria must remain focused on supporting efforts aimed at maintaining law and order.

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Abubakar said the country’s security agencies had demonstrated commitment in confronting terrorism but insisted that citizens must also play active roles in defeating criminal elements threatening national unity.

He blamed the politicisation of security issues for worsening the crisis, warning that divisive narratives and selfish interests have weakened efforts to address insecurity.

The elder statesman also expressed concern over the spread of misinformation and fake news on social media, saying such actions have emboldened terrorists and criminal groups by promoting false narratives and propaganda.

He urged Nigerians to set aside ethnic, religious and political differences and unite against those responsible for violence and instability, noting that criminals do not discriminate based on identity.

Abubakar further encouraged members of the armed forces and other security agencies to remain resolute in carrying out their duties despite the challenges they face.

He also called on government authorities to sustain decisive measures aimed at ending insecurity and preventing further loss of lives.

Reaffirming his commitment to the unity of Nigeria, the former Head of State said he still dreams of a peaceful and prosperous nation that future generations can inherit.

He appealed to citizens to remain calm, law-abiding and vigilant, while offering prayers for the families of security personnel and other victims who have lost their lives in the line of duty.

The statement reads partly, “It is clear that the success of attaining this objective must be inclusive. The armed forces and all other security agencies have been very strong in the fight against terrorism. But this is not their fight alone. Every citizen has a stake and it is my plea that Nigerians unite to fight against terror.

“Over the years, politicization of security matters has worsened the situation and this has brought us to where we are today. Let us join forces with Government and Security agencies at all levels to defeat these evil ones, who do not recognise ethnicity, religion, political party, communal life or other forms of identity. 

“Propaganda for political and other selfish gains is also giving oxygen to terrorist groups. The use of fake news on social media to propagate false narratives has served to encourage terrorists and other criminal groups. The success of one terrorist group encourages another, and unless we have a rethink, we will continue to promote this crisis.

“I urge the armed forces and security agencies to continue their efforts, resolve and firmness in this fight and not to be discouraged. I urge Government should in every manner continue to take decisive actions and resolve to bring tragedy to an end.

“Nigeria is the only country we have. I joined the army to defend it with my life. I am a firm believer in a united and peaceful Nigeria. At my age, it was and is still my dream that we hand over to our children a united and prosperous nation.”