Renowned security expert and chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Abayomi Nurain Mumuni, has called for an urgent review and strengthening of Nigeria’s security architecture amid rising insecurity across the country.
He also warned against the spread of fake news, inflammatory comments, and divisive rhetoric, saying such actions could undermine national unity and distract from efforts to address the country’s security challenges.
Mumuni’s intervention comes as protests continue in parts of Oyo State over the abduction of schoolchildren, with concerned parents, residents, and civil society groups demanding swift action from government and security agencies.
The incident has further heightened fears across the country, where kidnappings, banditry, and other violent crimes continue to pose significant security challenges.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by his media aide, Rasheed Abubakar, the APC stalwart described the persistent wave of kidnappings and abductions as a national crisis affecting families and communities across every region of the country.
“On a matter that weighs heavily on the conscience of our nation, the persistent threat of kidnapping and abductions continues to affect families across every region of Nigeria,” Mumuni stated.
“The scourge of kidnapping is not a localised challenge. No state, no community, and no family remains untouched by this crisis. I recognise the anguish of parents, the trauma of communities, and the collective anxiety that grips our nation. These are our citizens, our children, our future.”
The security expert urged Nigerians to remain patient and continue supporting security agencies despite growing public frustration over recurring incidents of abductions and violent attacks.
According to him, the security forces are confronting highly organised criminal and terrorist networks whose operations require strategic responses and sustained efforts.
“I call for patience and sustained commitment from Nigerians toward our security forces. The adversaries they face are not mere criminals but organised terrorist cells with sophisticated networks and distributed operations targeting vulnerable populations. The complexity of these threats demands time, strategy, and unwavering resolve,” he said.
Mumuni also urged security personnel to intensify efforts to rescue victims and prevent future attacks while maintaining accountability and transparency in their operations.
He further appealed to political leaders, social commentators, media practitioners, and citizens to exercise restraint in public discussions on security matters, warning that the spread of fake news and inflammatory statements could worsen tensions and undermine national cohesion.
“I also appeal for responsible discourse. While constructive criticism strengthens institutions, inflammatory and venomous statements undermine national unity and distract from solutions. Your platforms carry influence; use them to inform, unite, and inspire rather than inflame,” he said.
The APC chieftain stressed the need for empathy toward affected families, noting that national conversations should focus on supporting victims rather than exploiting tragedies for political gains.
“Let us show genuine concern for affected families. Our words and actions must reflect empathy, not political calculation. The families of the kidnapped deserve our immediate attention and support,” he added.