Osiebe Raises Alarm Over Rising Insecurity in Nigeria
Dr. Nafisat Makinde, Abuja
Journalist and parliamentary advocate Amb. Anderson Osiebe has expressed concern over Nigeria’s worsening insecurity, warning that the growing wave of kidnappings, killings, and violent attacks across parts of the country reflects a dangerous decline in national safety and peaceful coexistence.
In a statement titled “I Weep for Nigeria: Ogbomosho on My Mind,” Osiebe reflected on his experience growing up in Northern Nigeria, describing the region as a place once known for hospitality, tolerance, unity, and communal living.
“Growing up in the North was one of the greatest experiences of my life,” Osiebe said. “The Northerners I grew up with were not known for violence, terrorism, banditry, or kidnapping.”
His comments come amid renewed public concern over insecurity following recent incidents across the country, including the abduction of pupils and teachers in Oyo State, where authorities confirmed that one teacher was killed while several victims were later rescued during security operations, according to reports by Reuters and local media outlets.
Recent data released by SBM Intelligence showed that thousands of Nigerians were abducted in kidnapping-related incidents between 2024 and 2025, with billions of naira reportedly paid as ransom across affected communities.
Osiebe questioned the growing presence of armed groups and criminal networks in regions once considered relatively peaceful.
“Who are these bandits, terrorists, and kidnappers terrorizing innocent citizens daily? What exactly is their mission in Nigeria? Who is sponsoring them, and why?” he asked.
The journalist, who is of Urhobo and Igbo heritage and has family ties across several ethnic groups, said Nigeria’s diversity should serve as a source of unity rather than fear and division.
“Nigeria belongs to all of us,” he said. “Our diversity was supposed to be our greatest strength, not the reason for our destruction.”
Osiebe further lamented the effect of insecurity on ordinary Nigerians, particularly farmers, travelers, and families living in affected communities.
“Communities are living in fear. Farmers can no longer go to their farms safely. Travelers are afraid of highways. Parents sleep with one eye open, uncertain of what tomorrow may bring,” he said.
The Federal Government has repeatedly stated that security agencies are intensifying operations against kidnappers, bandits, and insurgent groups across the country, while several state governments have introduced additional security measures in vulnerable communities.
Osiebe urged Nigerians to rise above ethnic and political divisions and demand accountability and responsible leadership capable of addressing the country’s growing security concerns.
“The time has come for Nigerians to rise above politics, tribe, and religion, and begin to ask hard questions about the future of our country,” he said.
He concluded by calling for national unity and hope despite the country’s current challenges.
“Once again, I weep for Nigeria. However, God bless Nigeria.”