Stop Politicising Nigeria’s Security Challenges, PSDI Urges Citizens

By Sumaila Ogbaje

Civil Society Group Calls for Unity Against Security Threats

The Peace, Security and Development Initiatives (PSDI), a prominent civil society organization, has strongly advised Nigerians against politicizing the country’s ongoing security challenges. The group emphasized the need for national unity in addressing these critical issues.

PSDI Raises Concerns Over Political Exploitation of Security Issues

During a press briefing in Abuja titled “Unholy Attempt to Politicise Security Challenges,” PSDI’s Publicity Secretary, Amechi Oyema, expressed concern about how some politicians are handling security matters. He commended President Bola Tinubu’s administration for its continued support to Nigeria’s Armed Forces and security agencies.

“Some politicians have chosen to politicize security challenges, apparently wanting the crisis to persist and escalate,” Oyema stated. He cited examples of inconsistent reactions to different security incidents, suggesting political motives behind some criticisms.

Recent Security Incidents Highlight Double Standards

The PSDI spokesperson pointed to specific cases:

• The lynching of 16 Kano-bound hunters in Uromi
• The massacre of 60 Plateau villagers
• The rescue of former NYSC Director-General Brig.-Gen. Maharazu Tsiga

“Rather than acknowledging the efforts of security forces, some politicians create negative narratives to discredit the government,” Oyema observed.

Call for Support to Security Forces

The group urged politicians to demonstrate statesmanship by supporting rather than undermining the military and security agencies. “These men and women are making tremendous sacrifices to protect our nation,” Oyema emphasized.

He warned that some politicians appear willing to see the country in crisis just to attack the administration, while their own children live safely abroad.

Progress in Security Operations

Oyema reported positive developments in security operations:

• Terrorists and bandits surrendering in large numbers
• Stubborn elements being neutralized

Message to Nigerian Youth

The PSDI issued a strong warning to Nigerian youth against being used by politicians to create unrest. “The military is fully capable, and you will face consequences if you allow yourself to be manipulated,” Oyema cautioned.

Quoting Brig.-Gen. Tsiga, he reminded citizens: “We should not sit down and believe that the government can do it alone. We must do it ourselves.”