The above-mentioned opinion piece published on July 12, 2022 and written by Eugene Enahoro, engrossed my attention.
From my perspective, the recent invasion of Kuje Correctional Centre and that of the presidential advance team indicated that the rising waves of insecurity had reached its peak, showing that nobody and nowhere is safe in the country.
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To be frank, there are array of lessons learned from the recent twin attacks. Only very introspective and reflective leaders would be able to realize that these terrorists’ assaults have sent a signal of chilling strength and their furtive missions in our dear country. Hence, the attention of Nigeria’s authorities should be brought to the fact that the victorious fight against brutal marauders shedding blood of innocent people of the North West region has gone beyond mere speeches.
Apart from attacking civilians, those twin invasions have given a fair warning for Nigeria’s authorities to perceive that these terrorists are out to claim the country and wreck havoc. The rising insecurity in the country is now becoming like violent wildfire blazing inch by inch throughout the country. This has to be tackled on the spot.
In fact, the current insecurity in the country has taken a heavy toll on less privileged households across the North West states who are mostly impoverished peasant farmers, by hijacking their farmlands. Apart from living through combined consequences of COVID-19 crisis, climate change and the Russia-Ukraine war, the pauperized people of the region may also be hit by a serious famine owing to how they are fleeing from their farms. Hungry men are indeed angry men and anger is like a ticking bomb.
Shortly after the attack on the Kuje Correctional Centre, the Islamic State in West Africa Province (ISWAP) claimed responsibility for it. Perhaps, this terrorist group is gearing up to enhance its strength to keep shedding blood of innocent lives of Nigerians.
As the 2023 general elections draw nearer, from all indications, the current insecurity may pose the biggest threat to the polls if left unaddressed.
The rising insecurity should not dash our hopes and allow these terrorists turn our fatherland into a pathetic state like Somalia or Syria. Our brave military men have to be reminded that perseverance is a key to overcoming any battle.
Mustapha Baba Azare writes from Bauchi State
