Former Kano State governor and vice presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has expressed deep concern over the worsening security situation across the country, warning that Nigeria is “bleeding profusely” as criminal activities continue to spread unchecked.
In a statement on his X, Kwankwaso lamented the escalating wave of banditry, terrorism, kidnapping, armed robbery and communal violence affecting several states, including Zamfara, Borno, Sokoto, Katsina, Kwara and Oyo, saying many Nigerians now live in constant fear.
According to him, the growing boldness of criminal elements has become alarming, with some openly using social media platforms to mock security agencies and intimidate citizens.
He described the development as unacceptable and unworthy of a sovereign nation, stressing that the inability to guarantee the safety of lives and property threatens the country’s unity, economic growth and social stability.
Kwankwaso, who served as Governor of Kano State and later as Minister of Defence, said insecurity was not an insurmountable challenge, recalling that decisive leadership and community engagement had previously helped reduce security threats in parts of the country.
“What we lack today is not resources but the political will and sincerity required to confront this menace head-on,” he stated.
The former defence minister criticised the current security strategy, arguing that despite huge budgetary allocations to the sector, the security situation continues to deteriorate, leading to the loss of innocent lives, displacement of thousands of citizens and severe economic hardship.
He called for an urgent and comprehensive overhaul of Nigeria’s security architecture, insisting that the country could no longer afford to continue on its present trajectory.
Kwankwaso also urged the federal government to complement security efforts with investments in critical sectors such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, electricity and agriculture.
According to him, improving access to quality education, modern infrastructure and healthcare services, while providing farmers with essential agricultural inputs, would strengthen local food production and enhance national stability.
He further advocated improved welfare packages for security personnel, enhanced intelligence gathering and stronger community policing initiatives.
The Kwankwasiyya leader maintained that lasting peace would only be achieved by addressing the underlying causes of insecurity, including poverty, unemployment and poor governance.
He called for massive investments in education, skills acquisition and job creation programmes targeted at Nigeria’s growing youth population, noting that such measures would help reduce crime and restore hope among millions of young people.
Kwankwaso warned that unless urgent steps are taken, the nation’s security challenges could further undermine economic development and national cohesion.