Nigeria Must Build a Security System that Gets There First

This Rejoinder to Onikepo Braithwaite’s piece of 24/6/2025, “It’s Time to Arrest the Killings”, by Rear Admiral Bolanle Ati-John (Rtd), goes on to proffer numerous viable suggestions on how Nigeria can effectively fight its insecurity problem, including a heavy deployment of technology and the use of local regional forces who are familiar with their home terrains

Background: Onikepo Braithwaite’s Article 

Onikepo Braithwaite’s recent article, “It’s Time to Arrest the Killings”, is a critical and courageous intervention. She cuts through the comfortable, misleading language that has long softened the brutality of Nigeria’s security crisis. By calling out the phrase “communal clashes” as a lazy and dangerous euphemism, Braithwaite forces the nation to face what has been unfolding for years: a sustained campaign of terror, land seizure, and displacement that has devastated communities in Benue, Plateau, Kaduna, and beyond.

Her insistence that we must stop normalising these atrocities is both timely and necessary. The killings she describes are not random, they are not spontaneous, and they are not the inevitable by-products of social tensions. They are the result of deliberate attacks, predictable patterns, and a security system that consistently shows up after the fact.

But, if we are to truly arrest the killings – as Braithwaite demands – we must go even further. We must confront the brutal truth that, Nigeria’s security architecture is not just failing because it is under-resourced. It is failing because it is fundamentally designed to react, not to prevent. And, by the time our security forces react, entire villages have already been burned to the ground.

It is a deadly cycle that has played out with cruel precision, across Nigeria’s most vulnerable regions. The attackers plan, strike, and vanish long before security reinforcements arrive. The survivors bury their dead. Government officials issue condolences. Investigations are promised, but rarely concluded. Then the process repeats itself. We cannot continue like this.

If Nigeria is serious about protecting its people, it must now build a security system that gets there first. The era of helpless reaction must end. The era of intelligent prevention must begin.

Technology Must Lead the Way

The tools to make this shift, already exist. Nigeria does not have to invent them. Drone surveillance, satellite imagery, geofencing of high-risk rural areas, and mobile-based early warning systems are all practical, proven technologies. They have been used to monitor insurgencies in East Africa, to track poachers in Southern Africa, and to prevent village raids in fragile parts of South Asia. These are not luxuries. For a country as vast and vulnerable as Nigeria, they are essential.

In many of the attacks that Braithwaite describes, the warning signs were visible well before the violence. Suspicious movements, abandoned farms, the build-up of armed groups – all of these were detectable. But, Nigeria’s current security system lacks the capacity and the urgency to see them in time.

Imagine instead, a system where drone patrols monitor remote farmlands in real time. Where satellites flag unusual gatherings in forest corridors. Where villagers can issue distress signals through simple mobile apps that instantly trigger alerts to nearby security posts. This is not science fiction. This is basic modern security infrastructure.

But, technology alone, will not save us.

Security Must Go Local and Regional

Nigeria must finally abandon the dangerous illusion, that security can be centrally managed from Abuja. The Federal Government cannot possibly protect every farm, every village, and every highway in a country this large. Yet, for decades, Abuja has clung to near-total control of armed security forces, while leaving State and regional actors under-equipped and under-authorised. This approach is no longer sustainable.

The idea that States and local communities should play a primary role in their own defence, is not radical. It is common sense. State Governors, local leaders, and community-based security groups, are often the first to hear of impending threats. They have the terrain knowledge, the language fluency, and the trust of local populations – advantages that Federal forces rarely enjoy.

Structures like the Àmòtèkun Corps in the Southwest, Ebube Agu in the Southeast, and vigilante groups in the North, have already emerged out of sheer necessity. These groups are often the first responders, when Federal forces are absent or arrive too late. Rather than viewing them with suspicion, the Nigerian Government should formally recognise, regulate, and strengthen them.

To be clear, this is not a call for fragmented militias or for security structures to become political weapons. That risk is real, but the solution is not to paralyse local action – it is to build accountability into the system.

Regional security coordination, is the missing layer. Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones should serve as natural platforms, for security collaboration across State lines. Criminal networks, bandit gangs, and terrorist cells, do not respect administrative boundaries. Security responses should not be trapped by them.

Each region should develop its own security coordination centres, equipped to track threats in real time, to share intelligence rapidly across states, and to mobilise joint responses without waiting for Abuja’s green light. These regional hubs would not replace federal security forces but would work alongside them, combining federal resources with local speed and local knowledge.

This is how Nigeria builds a security system, that can get there first.

Funding: A Question of Priorities

One of the silent tragedies in Nigeria’s security failure, is the consistent excuse of insufficient funds. We hear it after every massacre. The security forces lacked fuel, lacked vehicles, lacked helicopters, lacked weapons. But, somehow, there is always enough money for bloated political entourages, for unnecessary capital projects, for obscene election spending.

Let’s be honest: budgets are moral documents. When a government claims it cannot find the funds to protect its citizens, what it is really saying is that protection is not a priority. The protection of life, must no longer be negotiable. If Nigeria can fund political campaigns that flood cities with billboards and charter flights, it can certainly fund regional security hubs, drones, and mobile alert systems. The country’s leaders must reorder spending, to reflect the true value of Nigerian lives. This is not a matter for international donors. The lives of Nigerians, should not depend on the goodwill of foreign partners. Nigeria has the resources. It has simply failed to apply them, where they matter most.

Guarding Against Abuse

Braithwaite warns, rightly, about the dangers of security failure. But, we must also be vigilant about the dangers of security overreach. Any system that invests heavily in surveillance and expands the role of local security forces, must come with strict guardrails. Nigeria cannot afford to trade one danger for another.

The abuse of surveillance technology is not hypothetical. Across Africa, we have seen spyware deployed against journalists, opposition figures, and human rights defenders. In Nigeria itself, concerns have been raised about the targeting of critics under the guise of security monitoring.

If Nigeria is to adopt security technologies, they must be designed and deployed with transparency from the start. Civilian-led oversight bodies, must monitor their use. Procurement processes must be open, competitive, and free from political interference. Data protection policies must be clear and enforceable.

The new security system must protect both the physical safety, and the democratic freedoms of the Nigerian people. We cannot build a shield for some, and a sword against others.

The Legal Ground is Solid

There is no constitutional barrier, to building the system Nigeria needs. The Constitution rightly prohibits States from forming independent armed forces, but it does not prevent the creation of well-coordinated, technology-driven, community-based security structures.

States can deploy surveillance tools, establish early warning systems, fund local security initiatives, and cooperate across regions without violating constitutional provisions. The obstacle is not legal. It is political. It is a persistent centralisation reflex, that resists giving States and regions the tools they need to act swiftly.

This is a failure of imagination. And, it is a failure of courage.

This is Not Abuja’s Battle Alone

The greatest mistake Nigeria could make, is to continue waiting for a Federal rescue that never arrives on time. Federal forces cannot be everywhere. They cannot hear every warning. They cannot respond to every threat, before it becomes a tragedy.

What Braithwaite’s intervention makes clear – and what must now be fully accepted – is that security in Nigeria is not the exclusive responsibility of the Federal Government. It is a shared responsibility. It is a multi-layered effort that requires Federal, State, regional, and community actors working in real-time collaboration. If Nigeria remains locked in its current security model, the results are predictable. More villages will fall. More lives will be lost. More families will grieve while the nation debates, investigates, and delays.

But, there is another path. Nigeria can build a security system, that anticipates danger. A system that uses technology to see threats, before they strike. A system that empowers local responders and regional coalitions, to act swiftly. A system that prioritises prevention over reaction. A system that is both accountable and effective.

The choice is clear. The clock is ticking. The lives that can be saved, are waiting. And, the courage to save them must no longer wait.

Rear Admiral K Bolanle Ati-John (Rtd)

​  

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    Hon. Gbenga Makanjuola is a former Deputy Chief Staff to former Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki, and now a chieftain of All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kwara state. In this interview, he spoke with Hammed Shittu on a wide range of national issues after the State APC Stakeholders Meeting held in Ilorin recently. Excerpts:

    What is your take on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration in the Last two years?

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has demonstrated uncommon courage in taking bold policy decisions necessary for the long-term stability and growth of our nation. The removal of fuel subsidy and the harmonization of the exchange rate, though initially painful, are steps towards resetting our economy for sustainable development. In the area of infrastructure, social investment, security, and renewed diplomacy, we are beginning to see gradual progress. While challenges remain, it is clear that the President is laying a solid foundation for the future. As to whether he deserves a second term, it is ultimately for Nigerians to decide, but I believe if the current trajectory is sustained and deepened, the administration will earn the trust of Nigerians for continuity and I am positive on that fact.

    As a two term federal House of Representatives member, how can you assess the present members of the 10th National Assembly?

    As a two-term former member of the House of Representatives, and one who had worked in official capacity with the leadership of the National Assembly for years, I understand the enormous expectations Nigerians place on the legislature. The 10th National Assembly has started on a modest but steady note. We have seen interventions in critical areas such as economic reforms, security, and oversight of government agencies. However, Nigerians expect more vibrancy and responsiveness to their yearnings. The legislators must continue to strengthen and sustain its independence while working harmoniously with the executive to deliver good governance. This is very important.

    The reported cases of Insecurity in Nigeria especially in Kwara state is highly alarming, what do you think the way out?

    It is a fact that Insecurity remains one of the most pressing challenges confronting our nation at the moment. I am aware of the tremendous efforts being made and achieved by our security agencies across board. It is our collective responsibility to encourage intelligence gathering while the government should equally boost the moral of our personnel at the the battle field. For Kwara State and other affected areas, the solution lies in a multi-pronged approach: strengthening community policing, improving intelligence gathering, investing in modern security technology, and addressing the root causes of insecurity such as poverty, unemployment, and lack of education. I believe with the current synergy between federal and state governments, coupled with local community participation as we are witnessing currently, we can drastically reduce the menace. You will agree with me that in most of this banditry attack and kidnapping, there are informant within the community. As people, we need to collaborate and fish out these elements in our midst for lasting solutions.

    What moves you to dump your former party, PDP for the ruling All Progressives Congress(APC)?

    My decision to join the APC was informed by a deep conviction to contribute meaningfully to the growth of the Nation and Kwara State under a progressive platform. I saw in the APC a party that is people-oriented, reform-driven, and genuinely committed to development of Nigeria under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Kwara State under the leadership of His Excellency, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq. My move was not out of personal interest but borne out of the need to align with the aspirations of my people, who overwhelmingly support the APC in the state. As you know, all politics are local. Moreso, I am not the only one bearing the name, Gbenga Makanjuola. There are thousands of people and well wishers who share that name with me ideologically and with total believe in my leadership. Hence, whatever they decides is my interest because, I can’t do it alone and i am happy for that.

    What can you say about the Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s Administration in the last six years?

    Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has, over the last six years, demonstrated visionary and pragmatic leadership. His focus on education, healthcare, road infrastructure, entrepreneurship support and youth empowerment has transformed Kwara State into a model of inclusive governance. His administration has restored people’s confidence in government and laid a foundation for sustainable development. The Governor deserves commendation for his humility in delivery, accessibility, and commitment to service delivery. I can see that his administration is not about merry making, rather it is service oriented and that’s what Kwara needs. I believe he still has a lot in stock for the development of Kwara State, hence the Governor needs our total support and encouragement .

    How prepared is your party, APC, ahead of 2027 elections in Kwara?

    The APC in Kwara State remains the party to beat. Our achievements in governance at both the federal and state levels speak for themselves. While opposition parties like the PDP and ADC are free to contest, we are confident that our record of performance, unity, and grassroots support will give us an edge in 2027. Politics is about the people, and the people of Kwara have continued to repose their trust in the APC.

    What can you say about the Local Government Autonomy in the country?

    The Constitution has indeed granted autonomy to local governments, but implementation remains a challenge due to structural and political factors. I strongly support genuine autonomy for local governments because they are the closest to the people. Effective local government administration will promote rural development, create jobs, and reduce the burden on state governments. It is my hope that the political will to actualize this provision will be demonstrated without further delay.

    What is your opinion of the call on conduct of all elections in a single day in the country?

    The idea of conducting all elections in one day has its merits and demerits. On one hand, it saves cost and reduces the fatigue associated with staggered elections. On the other hand, it may overstretch our electoral body and security agencies. Personally, I believe Nigeria can gradually move towards that direction, provided we strengthen our electoral processes, logistics, and technology to ensure credibility and efficiency.

    What can you say on the planned move to increase the salary of political office holders in the country?

    While I appreciate the need to review remuneration from time to time, I believe that at this critical period, the focus should be on alleviating the hardship faced by ordinary Nigerians. Any discussion about salary increases for political office holders must be approached with caution and sensitivity. Priority should be given to policies that improve the welfare of civil servants, farmers, artisans, and the general populace before any upward review for politicians. Leadership is about sacrifice, and this is one area where we must lead by example.

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    Hon. Gbenga Makanjuola is a former Deputy Chief Staff to former Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki, and now a chieftain of All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kwara state. In this

    AGF Denies Abusing Court Process in Alleged Criminal Defamation Suit against Akpoti-Uduaghan

    AGF Denies Abusing Court Process in Alleged Criminal Defamation Suit against Akpoti-Uduaghan

    *As court adjourns to December 1 for hearing objection motion

    Alex Enumah in Abuja

    The office of the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice has denied allegations of abuse of court process in the trial of Kogi Central Senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.

    The federal government had on June 19, 2025, arraigned Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan before a High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in Maitama Abuja, on a three-count criminal charge bordering on defamation against the Senator President, Godswill Akpabio, and the immediate past governor of Kogi State, Mr Yahaya Bello.

    But, the senator in her response to the charge, accused the federal government of abuse of court process, following the filing of a similar charge against her at the Federal High Court, Abuja.

    Recall that the court had at the last sitting fixed October 27, for hearing in the defendant’s objection to her trial based on the alleged abuse by the prosecution.

    But, at Monday’s proceedings, the AGF faulted Akpoti-Uduaghan’s claim that the charges filed against her before the FCT High Court and the Federal High Court, Abuja, amounted to an abuse of court process.

    The prosecution stated that contrary to the defendant’s claim the charges were duly filed upon comprehensive and conclusive investigations and after a prima facie case has been established against the defendant.

    In its counter affidavit to the senator’s Notice of Preliminary Objection, the federal government also denied claim that the defendant’s petitions were not investigated.

    While at the FCT High Court, the federal government had filed criminal defamation charge against the Kogi Central senator, at the Federal High Court, she is standing trial on alleged cybercrime offences, for accusing Akpabio and Bello of plans to have her killed.

    But, in the counter affidavit, the prosecution stated that contrary to her claim, the three-count charge before the HIgh Court of the FCT was filed against her “after a thorough investigation of the case and a prima facie case was established. 

    “The three-count charge was preferred against the defendant pursuant to the Penal code Law of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and in the bonafide exercise of the prosecutorial powers of the Honourable Attorney General of the Federation guaranteed under the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999(as amended) and in the best interest of justice.

    “The actions and conducts of the defendant/applicant (Natasha) contravened the penal code law of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

    “The criminal charge against the defendant is borne out of the comprehensive and conclusive investigation of the case, including all petitions and parties related to the case by the Nigerian Police Force.

    “All the petitions filed by the defendant were duly investigated and charges filed at the FCT High Court against her colleague senator.

    “The Office of the Honourable Attorney General of the Federation filed the criminal charge against the defendant after due regard to the public interest, the interest of justice and the need to prevent abuse of legal process.

    “The charge against the defendant is consistent with the extant laws and does not constitute an abuse of the legal and prosecutorial powers of the Office of the Honourable Attorney General of the Federation,” the prosecution said.

    At Monday’s proceedings, FG’s lawyer, Mr David Kaswe, from the Federal Ministry of Justice, observed that the case was slated for the hearing of the defendant ‘s preliminary objection, but the prosecution filed a counter affidavit, which it was unable to serve on the defendant.

    Kaswe accordingly prayed the court for a short adjournment to enable the prosecution properly serve the defendant with its response to her preliminary objection.

    He said: “It will not be fair for the prosecution to insist that the matter goes on as the defence team has indicated that it will respond to our counter affidavit.

    “In the circumstance, we are asking for a short adjournment to enable us (prosecution) to effect proper service on the defence.”

    Responding, Natasha’s lawyer, Ehiogie West-Idahosa (SAN) confirmed that the defendant was not served with the prosecution’s counter affidavit.

    West-Idahosa said his client would respond once she is properly served and prayed the court for a long adjournment on the grounds that members of the defendant’s legal team plan to attend this year’s Internation Bar Association’s meeting in Canada.

     In a short ruling, the trial judge, Justice Chizoba Oji, granted the request for adjournment and fixed December 1 for hearing in the preliminary objection and the counter affidavit.

    ​  

    *As court adjourns to December 1 for hearing objection motion Alex Enumah in Abuja The office of the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice has denied

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