Concerned by the rising insecurity across Nigeria, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu has called on the federal government to take urgent and decisive action to tackle the worsening situation. The Abia North lawmaker, who also chairs the Senate Committee on the South-East Development Commission, emphasized that national security should not be politicised.
In a video message shared from China via his social media handle, the former Senate Chief Whip stressed the need for increased investment in the country’s security architecture. He said that the current state of insecurity, especially in Borno State and the South-East, requires immediate and sincere intervention.
Kalu was reacting to a recent statement by Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Zulum, who raised an alarm over the deteriorating security in his state and warned that some areas had already been taken over by insurgents.
“I want to believe Professor Zulum when he says the security situation in Borno is getting worse. If urgent steps are not taken, both Borno and the South-East could be lost to terrorists,” Kalu warned.
He urged the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, not to dismiss the governor’s concerns but to communicate the reality of the situation to President Bola Tinubu.
“The Minister of Information is doing his job, but he should not downplay Governor Zulum’s concerns. These are serious issues. We need to tell the President the truth so that we can act swiftly. If we keep glossing over the facts, we risk making parts of the country ungovernable,” he said.
Kalu also cautioned against any public disagreement between government officials on issues of national security, noting that unity and honesty are key to resolving the crisis.
“Our army, police, and other security agencies are doing their best. I commend their efforts, especially the Chief of Army Staff and the Inspector General of Police. But we must equip them better and give them more support, especially in high-risk areas like the South-East and Borno,” he added.
The former Abia State governor emphasized that insecurity must not be treated as a political issue but as a national emergency. He urged leaders to stop issuing public statements on security matters without proper consultation with security agencies.
“No governor or president wants to see their people suffer. But leaders must speak with one voice, consult with security chiefs, and ensure the right resources are allocated,” Kalu said.
He expressed confidence in the country’s security apparatus and in the capacity of the National Security Adviser and Director of the DSS, Tosin, whom he described as highly capable. According to him, with unity and sincerity, Nigeria can overcome insecurity and focus on building a stronger economy.
“President Tinubu has made significant efforts. Let’s support him by working together, telling the truth, and prioritising the safety and economic prosperity of all Nigerians,” he concluded.
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