The fight against insecurity dominated discussions as Senator Ali Ndume met with President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa, Abuja on Thursday.
The Borno South Senator said that the renewed push by security agencies against bandits and terrorists must be sustained, expressing optimism that the country can overcome the security challenges.
Speaking after the meeting, Sen.Ali Ndume told State House press that insecurity, which was once concentrated in parts of the North-East, has spread to other regions of the country, making it the nation’s biggest concern.
“Insecurity is our greatest concern in the country right now. It used to be concentrated in the Northeast, but it has now spread to the South, North-Central, North-West and even the South-West.”
The lawmaker commended President Tinubu, the Armed Forces and other security agencies for intensifying operations against criminal elements.
He said recent actions against bandit leaders and the surrender of some commanders indicate progress in the fight.
“There has been a lot of pressure recently on bandits in the North-West, the Northeast and elsewhere. Some of their leaders have been taken out, and some of their commanders surrendered yesterday. If this momentum is sustained, we are confident that the problem will eventually end.”
Ndume said President Tinubu’s meeting with Service Chiefs before their engagement showed the administration’s seriousness in tackling insecurity.
He also welcomed the decision by 19 Northern Governors to establish a Security Trust Fund, describing it as a step that would complement the efforts of federal security agencies.
“You should not leave the responsibility only to the federal government. Now that they have agreed to contribute funds, those institutions should collaborate with the existing security framework.”
The Senator insisted that terrorists and bandits must be decisively dealt with once identified, arguing that security agencies must remain firm in protecting citizens.
Ndume also called for greater communication between the President and Nigerians, saying citizens need to be regularly informed about government actions in addressing insecurity and other national challenges.
(Editor: Ken Eseni)
