Protesters storm national assembly, demand urgent action on insecurity

A group of concerned Nigerians on Tuesday took their campaign against rising insecurity to the national assembly, calling on the federal government and security agencies to adopt stronger measures to tackle banditry, terrorism and kidnapping across the country.

The demonstrators, who marched under the banner of a citizens’ movement against insecurity, converged in Abuja and proceeded peacefully to the National Assembly, carrying placards and chanting messages demanding improved security for Nigerians.

Speaking on behalf of the protesters, one of the organisers said insecurity has become a national crisis that cuts across political, ethnic and religious divides, stressing that victims of attacks are ordinary Nigerians regardless of their affiliations.

According to him, fear has taken over many communities and major highways, with residents and travellers increasingly vulnerable to criminal attacks.

The protesters urged the government to prioritise the protection of lives and property, insisting that citizens deserve to live, work and travel without fear.

They also called on security authorities to strengthen intelligence gathering, improve operational strategies and take decisive action against criminal groups terrorising communities across the country.

Another speaker at the rally appealed to retired military officers and former security chiefs to support ongoing efforts to address the nation’s security challenges by sharing their experience and expertise.

He warned that persistent insecurity could negatively affect political participation, economic activities and national development if urgent steps are not taken.

The protesters further urged lawmakers to intensify oversight of security spending and ensure that funds allocated for defence and security purposes are properly utilised.

While advocating reforms within the security sector, they cautioned against creating additional security structures without providing adequate training, equipment and operational support.

According to them, any move to establish state police or expand community-based security outfits must be backed by sufficient funding, modern equipment and effective coordination with federal security agencies.

The demonstration ended peacefully after representatives of the National Assembly received a petition from the group and assured them that their concerns would be conveyed to the leadership of the legislature for further consideration.