Editorial

The rising wave of insecurity in Nigeria has become one of the most troubling realities of daily life. Every day seems to bring another story of kidnappings, bandit attacks, killings, or violent robberies. Sadly, many people barely react anymore, even though the fear remains deep within us. As a young Nigerian, it is painful to watch insecurity grow to the point where ordinary life now feels unsafe and unpredictable.

Across the country, families are mourning loved ones, and parents are anxious whenever their children travel. Many people avoid roads they once used freely. Even places of worship, which should be safe sanctuaries, are no longer spared. The recent attack in Kwara State, where armed men entered a church, killed worshippers, and kidnapped several people, is a clear reminder of how far Nigeria has fallen. When criminals can enter a church and abduct people without fear, it shows that something is fundamentally wrong with our security system.

What makes this crisis even more discouraging is the sense that leaders are not responding with the urgency the situation demands. Instead of taking decisive action, the government continues to make excuses, downplay the severity of the crisis, or claim progress that ordinary citizens cannot see. Many Nigerians feel abandoned, and it is difficult to understand how insecurity continues to rise while officials insist that “everything is under control.” At times, it even appears as though those in power are more comfortable negotiating with criminals than confronting them. How can a country claim to protect its people when the same criminals who terrorize citizens seem to operate without consequence?

Nigeria urgently needs genuine reform that goes beyond speeches and promises. We need a stronger security structure, better intelligence, proper accountability, and leaders who truly care about the lives of the people they govern. Young Nigerians deserve to dream without fear of being kidnapped. Parents deserve to sleep without worrying about midnight attacks. Every citizen deserves a country where safety is a basic right and not a privilege. Until real action is taken, the troubling question remains: how long must Nigerians continue to live with fear as their everyday reality?

Adetola 

Asst. Editor-in-Chief (Admin).