When people unite for their common good, no government can ignore them. Today, I witnessed the true power of the people. The road from Makurdi to Lafia and Abuja was completely blocked by Nigerians who have been displaced from their homes due to worsening insecurity. They lay on the road. No vehicle could move. No one could pass. Their demand was clear and singular they wanted to see their governor and ask why, for the past two months, their plight had been neglected.
More than anything else, what Nigerians need from the government today is security food security, social security, employment security, and, most critically, security of lives and property. The Nigerian people must unite and hold the government and its political leaders accountable.
The Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria is unambiguous about the primary duty of government. Section 14(2)(b) clearly states that “the security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government.” Any government that fails to provide security for its citizens is dangerously close to being a failed government.
Today, I saw what can happen when people speak with one voice. Coincidentally, the Nigerian Bar Association held a security summit in Makurdi for its members from across North Central Nigeria. The theme was: “Strengthening Security, Rule of Law, and Justice Delivery in North Central Nigeria.” Lawyers from across the country attended. Politicians came and left. But today, just after North Bank in Makurdi, I witnessed the real-life implications of the issues we discussed. The people who should be served took to the road in peaceful protest, demanding governance and accountability.
As I mentioned earlier, the Constitution prioritizes the safety, security, and welfare of the people. Yet, how can welfare exist in the absence of peace and security? The current security situation in Nigeria is deeply troubling. Travelling by road has become a high-risk venture. Though the Constitution guarantees freedom of movement, today that freedom is under threat. The fear of bandits and kidnappers has nearly paralyzed the nation.
While the government may claim to be doing its best, we must ask where are the results? Nigerians need more than promises and press statements. We need practical outcomes. When the Constitution refers to “the people,” it does not mean only those in government. It refers to every Nigerian citizen. Therefore, prioritizing the safety and welfare of only a select few in power, while neglecting the vast majority, is a gross violation of the Constitution itself.
Nigerians want their security and welfare to be pursued with urgency and sincerity. Farmers cannot go to their farms. Food production is suffering. The failure of the government to provide basic security has directly affected food availability and the economy. Without security, infrastructure development is meaningless, vulnerable to vandalism, destruction, and abandonment.
Just recently, vandals removed manhole covers in Abuja. Another day, electric cables were stolen with impunity. These are signs of deep-rooted insecurity. The government must prove that it has not failed its people.
I must repeat that what Nigerians urgently need is security of life, food, jobs, movement, and dignity. Until the government truly places the security and welfare of Nigerians at the heart of its governance, the challenges we face will persist.
It is time for Nigerian politicians to shift focus from sycophancy and performative governance to real leadership. Truth be told, our security situation is dire and addressing it can no longer be delayed.
J.S. Okutepa, SAN, is right—until Nigerian leaders put citizens’ welfare and security first, real progress will remain a dream. Performative politics must give way to true leadership.