Hundreds of youths on Tuesday gathered at the National Assembly in Abuja to call for national unity in tackling terrorism and insecurity across Nigeria.
The demonstrators, made up of young men and women, said they could no longer remain silent over what they described as the politicisation of insecurity in the country. They urged politicians across party lines to set aside their differences and support the Federal Government’s efforts to address the security crisis.
Carrying banners with inscriptions such as “Nigerians Unite Against Insecurity” and the hashtag #NigeriansUniteAgainstTerror, the protesters said terrorism could not be defeated in an atmosphere of division.
Speaking during the rally, Comrade Austin Okhai called on former security chiefs to lend their experience to ongoing efforts to restore peace and stability.
“We call on former military leaders, former service chiefs, former directors of the DSS, former Inspectors-General of Police, and former NSCDC Commandants-General to collaborate in ensuring that we put the country first,” he said.
Okhai warned that insecurity was already taking a toll on politics and everyday life, noting that no meaningful political activity could thrive in an unsafe environment.
“No political party can go on a rally when the people you mobilise cannot return to their homes,” he said.
Also Read: Oyo teachers begin indefinite strike over insecurity
He stressed that preserving Nigeria’s unity and safety should take precedence over political ambition.
“What is of paramount importance is to first have a country called Nigeria. After that, we can talk of who becomes President, governor, or member of the National Assembly,” he added.
Okhai also cited countries such as the United States, Israel, Pakistan and Kenya as nations facing security challenges, but noted that politicians in those countries do not turn insecurity into a campaign tool.
Also speaking, Comrade Isah Abubakar described insecurity as a national crisis affecting all Nigerians, regardless of political or religious affiliation.
“It is now clear that we have a very serious challenge. There are roads in Nigeria that, once it is 5 p.m., you cannot pass through,” he said.
Abubakar said the effects of insecurity cut across party lines, affecting members of the APC, PDP, ADC and other political groups alike.
“It has therefore become imperative for us all to forget our political and religious differences and collectively fight this monster called terrorism and insecurity,” he said.
Crediblenewsng.com
