2027: Nigeria’s security crisis must not be weaponised for politics – Analyst

A public affairs analyst and civil society advocate, Itodo Vincent, has warned that the insecurity challenges bedevilling Nigeria should not be weaponised for politics ahead of 2027 general elections. 

Vincent disclosed this in a statement on Monday. 

His comment comes as the minority leader of the House of Representatives, Fred Agbedi, issued President Bola Ahmed Tinubu a six-month ultimatum to end insecurity. 

The minority leader had also urged President Tinubu to suspend all political activities. 

Agbedi’s remarks had stirred both praise and condemnation among Nigerians. 

Reacting, Vincent described Agbedi’s remark as unfortunate and unhelpful.

He said while concerns over insecurity are legitimate and deserve urgent attention, it was wrong for senior political leaders to exploit the situation for partisan purposes.

The public affairs analyst argued that the security challenges confronting Nigeria predates the current administration and require the collective efforts of government, security agencies, communities and political stakeholders.

“It is unfortunate that Hon. Fred Agbedi chose to politicise an issue as sensitive as national security. Nigerians expect practical solutions and constructive engagement from political leaders, not statements designed to score partisan points.”

“For a serving minority leader to issue what amounts to an ultimatum to the president and suggest that he should resign if security challenges are not resolved within six months is reckless and unbecoming of a statesman.

“Security is a collective responsibility and should not be reduced to a platform for political posturing. What Nigerians need at this moment are ideas, cooperation and support for ongoing efforts to improve security and economic stability, not inflammatory comments,” he stated.