ABUJA — Calls are growing for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to translate his recent statements on the killings of Christians and other citizens into immediate and decisive action against terrorist groups, following international pressure and threats from global actors such as former US President Donald Trump.
The President had addressed Nigerians recently on the rising insecurity and killings attributed to Boko Haram and Fulani herdsmen terrorists, but critics say words alone are insufficient. They argue that the nation’s leader must act swiftly to protect lives, secure communities, and uphold public confidence in the federal government.
Why Action Is Critical
Security analysts and civil society actors have highlighted several reasons why President Tinubu’s response must go beyond rhetoric:
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National Security Responsibility: As head of state and Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces, Tinubu has a constitutional mandate to safeguard citizens’ lives and property. This includes preventing attacks, protecting residents, and maintaining law and order across Nigeria.
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Accountability and Rule of Law: Beyond confronting terrorists directly, critics urge the President to investigate and prosecute financiers, sympathizers, and government insiders who may be complicit in or benefiting from insurgent activities, ensuring that national security budgets are fully accounted for.
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Preserving Democracy and Stability: Terrorist attacks are seen not only as assaults on individuals but also on Nigeria’s democratic institutions, governance, and societal cohesion. Prompt action would reinforce the government’s legitimacy and commitment to peace, progress, and prosperity.
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Disrupting Terrorist Networks: Observers stress the importance of a comprehensive strategy that targets the operational capabilities, funding channels, and safe havens of Boko Haram and Fulani herdsmen terrorists.
Calls for Military Action
Some voices in civil society are urging the President to adopt an aggressive approach to eliminate terrorist threats, emphasizing that decisive military operations are necessary to secure communities and restore public confidence.
“It is within the President’s core responsibilities to protect citizens. He must deny terrorists safe havens and support, disrupt their networks, and decisively neutralize their capacity to harm Nigerians,” one security analyst said.
The calls echo broader concerns over the persistent attacks in the Northeast and other vulnerable regions, where communities have been subjected to killings, abductions, and property destruction, often by well-organized insurgent groups.
Moving Forward
While international engagement has helped bring attention to Nigeria’s security crisis, experts agree that the primary responsibility rests with the Nigerian government. Ensuring immediate, effective, and coordinated action is seen as essential to protect lives, stabilize communities, and strengthen the rule of law.
As Nigerians await concrete steps, the pressure is on the Tinubu administration to show that words on security will be backed by decisive measures on the ground.
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