CSOs urge Nigerians to work with security agencies to combat terrorism

Amid rising insecurity in Nigeria, civil society organisations (CSOs) in Akwa Ibom State have urged citizens to collaborate with security agencies, particularly in intelligence sharing, to combat terrorism.

Otuekong Franklyn Isong, State Director of the Centre for Human Rights and Accountability Network (CHRAN), made the remarks on Saturday during the Akwa Ibom Unite Against Terror civic campaign organised by the network.

Isong, who lamented the destruction of homes and communities by terror, described it as a common enemy that transcends religion, tribe, or social status.

“Terror is a common enemy to all Nigerians; it does not know religion or tribe. As a CSO, we are uniting against terrorism. If you see something, say something. Collaborate with the security agencies to fight terror. If you fail to report terror when it occurs, it will affect you too,” he said.

Clifford Thomas, Esq., Convener of the Akwa Ibom Human Rights Community, also spoke, urging people to look inward and devise local strategies to counter terror, warning that they should not wait to be attacked.

Referencing incidents in Bayelsa and Abia states where community youths overpowered assailants, Thomas encouraged Nigerians to use any means to protect themselves.

He noted that self‑defence is a fundamental right under Section 33, sub‑section 2 of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, and urged people to exercise that right when faced with terror.

Thomas also called for stronger state policing, stating that it would significantly curb insecurity.

“We are all victims of terror; no one is spared. Communities must act and report to the appropriate authorities. When nothing is done, look inward to protect your mothers, fathers, children, and brothers and sisters. Don’t wait for the enemy to slaughter you, but that does not mean you should resort to violence,” he said.

“Secondly, let all commissioners of police return to their region. When you send an Akwa Ibom son to the state as a commissioner of police, we know him well and can handle him if anything goes wrong. Besides, he will want to serve his people better,” he added.

Other CSO leaders who spoke, including Dr. Victor David of Vital Partners, said the fight against insecurity is not the government’s sole responsibility but requires the collective commitment of all citizens.

David urged Nigerians not to let insecurity destroy their unity, determine their future, or silence the young and growing democracy.

“We demand a Nigeria where every citizen can travel safely, farm safely, work safely, worship safely, and vote safely,” he added.