By Ibrahim Hassan-Wuyo
A public affairs commentator, Mr. Godson Akinsanya, has called for greater accountability, transparency and a broader strategy in addressing banditry and insecurity across parts of Nigeria.
In a statement that has attracted attention on social media, Akinsanya argued that despite significant investments in security, including the deployment of military personnel and intelligence resources, insecurity remains a major challenge in several parts of the country.
According to him, efforts to tackle banditry should go beyond military operations and focus on addressing the factors that enable criminal activities to thrive.
Akinsanya identified illegal mining, kidnapping for ransom and arms trafficking as issues that authorities should continue to address as part of a comprehensive approach to improving security.
He stressed the need for stronger oversight and accountability in the management of security-related expenditures, noting that transparency would help strengthen public confidence in government efforts.
The commentator also called for intensified action against illegal mining operations and criminal networks involved in kidnapping and arms trafficking.
While acknowledging ongoing efforts by security agencies, he urged authorities to focus on dismantling the structures that support criminal activities and to ensure that individuals found culpable of criminal conduct are investigated and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
Akinsanya further emphasized the importance of addressing the economic and social conditions that contribute to insecurity, arguing that sustainable peace requires a combination of security operations, law enforcement, economic development and community engagement.
He maintained that lasting progress in the fight against banditry would depend on strengthening institutions, improving accountability and ensuring that criminal networks are effectively disrupted.
His remarks come amid continuing national discussions on security challenges and ongoing calls for enhanced measures to combat banditry, kidnapping and other forms of violent crime across the country.
