to Unite Against Terror, Insecurity by Sanwo-Olu, Yari — Nigerians Urged

The recent spate of terrorist attacks and violent crimes in Nigeria has prompted Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and former Zamfara State Governor, Abdulaziz Yari, to call on citizens to come together and fight against these threats. In separate statements issued on Saturday, the two leaders emphasized the need for national unity in the face of insecurity, warning that criminal groups should not be allowed to divide the country or undermine public confidence in its future. The calls come amidst the backdrop of the abduction of teachers and students in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State and renewed attacks by terrorists and bandits in parts of the North. Sanwo-Olu urged Nigerians to rally behind President Bola Tinubu and the nation's security agencies in confronting the insecurity challenges, stressing that the fight against terrorism and banditry requires collective national action. He noted that every loss of life resulting from violence is a national tragedy and called on Nigerians to remember victims of insecurity in their prayers. The governor also warned against attempts to politicize insecurity, emphasizing that terrorists, kidnappers, and other criminal groups do not discriminate based on ethnicity, religion, or political affiliation. Sanwo-Olu expressed confidence in President Tinubu's leadership and the ability of the military, intelligence agencies, and other security institutions to confront the country's security threats. He also paid tribute to members of the armed forces and other security personnel engaged in counterterrorism and anti-banditry operations across the country. Yari, on the other hand, stressed that security should be regarded as a shared responsibility involving citizens, community leaders, traditional institutions, religious organizations, and civil society groups. He urged Nigerians to support security agencies with credible information while promoting peace and harmony in their communities. The former governor commended President Tinubu and security agencies for their ongoing efforts to address the country's security challenges and restore peace in troubled areas. Yari expressed optimism about the country's future, saying that Nigerians have repeatedly demonstrated resilience in the face of adversity and would ultimately overcome the current wave of insecurity. 'With unity of purpose, faith in God, and commitment to one another, we shall overcome these challenges. Nigeria will prevail. Peace will prevail. The spirit of our people will prevail,' he said. The calls by Sanwo-Olu and Yari for national unity against terrorism and insecurity have come at a time when the country is grappling with numerous security challenges, including the abduction of teachers and students, banditry, and terrorist attacks. It remains to be seen how Nigerians will respond to the calls by the two leaders and whether the country can overcome its current security challenges through collective action.