Democracy Day: Protesters urge Tinubu to adopt new approach to security crisis

Some Civil Society Organisations under the umbrella of United Against Terror on Friday called on President Bola Tinubu to adopt fresh strategies to address Nigeria’s worsening security challenges.

The groups made the appeal during a Democracy Day procession in Abuja, where they also urged Nigerians to unite against banditry, kidnapping, terrorism and other forms of violent crime.

Speaking to journalists, Austin Okhai, convener of the coalition, said insecurity has persisted despite changes in government and political leadership.

“Everyone is now a victim of insecurity, the politicians blame one another, they blame security operatives, they blame the ruling party, the ruling party blame opposition. But we keep saying, government comes, government goes, but insecurity is ongoing,” he said.

Okhai acknowledged the efforts of security agencies but said Nigerians must set aside political, religious and regional differences to confront a common threat. It is now we suspend the interests of our various political regions,” he said.

He said the country should focus on eliminating insecurity in all its forms and work together against insecurity, while calling on the government to remain receptive to alternative ideas on tackling insecurity.

“And the government must also be open to different opinions regarding the suggestions of a solution against insecurity,” he said.