Former Head of State, Retired Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar, has called on Nigerians to close ranks and work collectively with security agencies and government to confront the country’s worsening insecurity, warning that terrorism and violent crimes can only be defeated through unified action.
Abdulsalami made the call in a statement marking his 84th birthday, expressing deep concern over the persistent security challenges confronting the nation and the growing toll of violent attacks across several communities.
He said the killing of senior security personnel, including the late Maj.-Gen. Abubakar Rabe (retd.), alongside numerous other victims of insecurity, underscored the urgency of coordinated efforts to restore peace and stability.
Drawing from his military background and experience in the Nigerian Civil War as well as international peacekeeping operations, the former military leader stressed that national security requires sacrifices from both state actors and citizens.
“The armed forces and other security agencies have been very strong in the fight against terrorism. But this is not their fight alone. Every citizen has a stake, and it is my plea that Nigerians unite to fight against terror,” he said.
Abdulsalami warned that the politicisation of security matters had worsened the crisis, noting that divisive narratives and personal interests were undermining national efforts to tackle insecurity.
He added that insecurity thrives when it is subjected to political manipulation, urging leaders and citizens to rise above ethnic, religious and partisan sentiments in addressing the threat.
“Over the years, politicisation of security matters has worsened the situation, and this has brought us to where we are today,” he said, calling for stronger collaboration with security agencies at all levels of government.
The former Head of State also expressed concern over the spread of misinformation and fake news on social media, warning that false narratives and propaganda were indirectly strengthening terrorist and criminal groups.
He said such practices encouraged insecurity by amplifying fear and aiding the operations of violent actors, urging Nigerians to be more responsible in their use of digital platforms.
“The use of fake news on social media to propagate false narratives has served to encourage terrorists and other criminal groups. The success of one terrorist group encourages another,” he warned.
Abdulsalami further urged members of the armed forces and other security agencies to remain resolute in the discharge of their duties despite operational challenges, while calling on government at all levels to intensify efforts to end insecurity and prevent further loss of lives.
Reaffirming his commitment to national unity, he expressed optimism that Nigeria could still achieve lasting peace if citizens embrace cooperation, vigilance and mutual trust.
He also prayed for the families of victims of insecurity and security personnel who lost their lives in the line of duty, urging Nigerians to remain law-abiding and united in the face of the country’s security challenges.
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