Insecurity: CSOs urge stronger security action, seek citizens’ support against terrorism

Civil society organisations have called for intensified efforts by security agencies to protect Nigerians from persistent terrorist attacks, urging citizens to play a more active role by sharing credible intelligence that could help prevent violence.

The call came on Saturday in Abuja as the United Against Terror Movement (UATM) commended the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigerian Army and other security agencies for what it described as renewed professionalism in tackling terrorism, while insisting that more must be done to safeguard lives and property.

Speaking at a press conference themed, “Nigerians Unite Under #UnitedAgainstTerror: A Call for Peace, Solidarity, and Decisive Action,” the Convener of the movement, Okai Austin, said although security agencies had recorded notable successes, terrorism remained a major threat demanding sustained action.

“We commend the DSS, the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Police Force and local vigilante groups for their sacrifices and renewed professionalism in tackling terrorism. However, the work is far from over, and every effort must be made to ensure Nigerians can live without fear,” he said.

Austin praised the DSS for embracing due process by arresting terrorism suspects and allowing the courts to determine their guilt or innocence instead of resorting to extrajudicial measures.

He said the agency’s approach had helped strengthen public confidence in democratic institutions.

“The DSS has shown that terrorism can be fought within the ambit of the law through arrests, investigations and successful prosecutions. This is a model that should continue,” he added.

He also cited the recent release and compensation of a farmer allegedly wrongfully arrested by the DSS in Kaduna as an indication of growing institutional accountability, urging the military and police to adopt similar standards.

Despite the progress, Austin warned that terrorist groups still pose a significant danger and called for stronger intelligence gathering and coordinated operations.

“Terrorism remains a serious threat. Military commanders and political leaders must intensify intelligence gathering and eliminate violent extremism wherever it exists. Every attack on any Nigerian should be seen as an attack on the nation,” he said.

He appealed to Nigerians to support the #UnitedAgainstTerror campaign by volunteering credible information to security agencies rather than remaining silent.

“Effective collaboration between citizens and security agencies will deny terrorists the secrecy they rely on to plan and execute attacks. Security is everyone’s responsibility,” Austin said.

Also speaking, a member of the movement, Okpanachi Jacob, cautioned against posting sensitive security information on social media, warning that intelligence leaks could undermine security operations.

“Security information should be passed directly to the appropriate authorities, not circulated on social media where it could compromise ongoing operations,” he said.

Jacob also urged the Federal Government to strengthen oversight of funds allocated to states and local governments, arguing that prudent use of public resources would help address poverty and other socio-economic factors that fuel insecurity.