Former Kano State Governor and vice-presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Rabiu Kwankwaso, has called for a comprehensive overhaul of Nigeria’s security system, warning that insecurity continues to spread across the country despite significant government spending on the sector.
In a statement shared on his X account on Tuesday, Kwankwaso expressed concern over the growing wave of violence affecting many parts of the country, saying Nigerians are increasingly living in fear due to persistent attacks by bandits, kidnappers, terrorists, armed robbers, and groups involved in communal conflicts.
According to him, the security situation has deteriorated in several states, including Zamfara State, Borno State, Sokoto State, Katsina State, Kwara State and Oyo State, leaving many communities vulnerable to attacks.
Kwankwaso said one of the most troubling developments is the increasing confidence displayed by criminal groups, some of whom openly use social media platforms to threaten authorities and spread fear among citizens.
He described the trend as unacceptable and unworthy of a sovereign nation, stressing that criminal elements should never be allowed to operate with such boldness.
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Drawing from his experience as a former governor and former Minister of Defence, Kwankwaso argued that Nigeria’s security challenges are not beyond solution. He recalled efforts made during his time in office, saying decisive leadership and strong community engagement helped reduce security threats in areas under his watch.
The former governor maintained that Nigeria’s major problem is not a lack of resources but the absence of sufficient political will to tackle insecurity effectively. He noted that despite huge budget allocations to security agencies over the years, many communities continue to suffer attacks, resulting in deaths, displacement and economic hardship.
Kwankwaso urged the government to improve the welfare and morale of security personnel, strengthen intelligence gathering, and expand community policing initiatives to make local communities more involved in security efforts.
He also called for greater investments in education, healthcare, agriculture, infrastructure, electricity, skills acquisition and job creation, arguing that poverty, unemployment and poor governance remain key factors driving insecurity across the country.
According to him, addressing these root causes is essential to achieving lasting peace and stability.
His comments come amid renewed concerns over rising insecurity in several regions of the country, where attacks by armed groups, kidnappings and communal violence continue to threaten lives and livelihoods.
