Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and former Zamfara State Governor Abdulaziz Yari have urged Nigerians to stand together against terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other violent crimes.
The appeal came on Saturday amid growing security concerns following the abduction of teachers and students in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State and fresh attacks in parts of northern Nigeria.
In separate statements, both leaders said criminal groups should not be allowed to create division among citizens or weaken confidence in the country’s future. They maintained that tackling insecurity requires cooperation among government institutions, communities and ordinary Nigerians.
Sanwo-Olu said recent attacks across the country should remind citizens of the need for unity rather than political, ethnic or religious disagreements. According to him, insecurity affects all Nigerians regardless of their background, making it necessary for the country to speak with one voice against those responsible for violence.
The Lagos governor described the loss of lives and attacks on communities as painful events that should concern every citizen. He also called for support and prayers for those affected by the abduction of students and teachers in Oyo State.
He stated that terrorists, kidnappers and other criminal groups are working to spread fear and create instability. However, he expressed confidence that Nigeria has the strength and capacity to overcome the challenge through collective action and continued support for security agencies.
Sanwo-Olu also commended members of the armed forces and other security personnel involved in operations across the country. He noted that security operatives continue to risk their lives daily in efforts to protect citizens and defend the nation from criminal elements.
The governor urged Nigerians to assist security agencies by remaining vigilant and sharing useful information that could help prevent attacks and improve safety in local communities. He also expressed confidence in President Bola Tinubu’s administration and the ability of security institutions to confront the country’s security threats.
Yari, on his part, called on Nigerians to close ranks against criminal groups seeking to disrupt peace and national unity. The senator representing Zamfara West said recent killings and attacks across different parts of the country have brought pain to many families and communities.
He described terrorism, banditry and kidnapping as threats that affect all Nigerians and should not be viewed through political, ethnic or religious considerations. According to him, the response to insecurity must be collective and focused on protecting lives and preserving national unity.
The former governor said security should not be left to government agencies alone, adding that traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth groups, women associations and civil society organisations all have important roles to play in promoting peace and assisting security efforts.
Yari also encouraged citizens to provide credible information to security agencies while promoting peaceful coexistence within their communities. He warned that criminals thrive when communities are divided and distrustful of one another.
He further commended President Tinubu and security agencies for ongoing operations aimed at restoring peace in troubled areas and tackling violent crimes across the country.
Both leaders expressed optimism that Nigeria would overcome its security challenges through unity, resilience and cooperation among citizens and government institutions.
They maintained that sustained support for security efforts and stronger community participation remain key to defeating terrorists, bandits and other criminal groups operating across the country.