ADC chieftain blasts leaders as insecurity worsens

From Charity Nwakaudu, Abuja

The National Leader of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), Dr Chike Okogwu, has faulted Nigeria’s approach to tackling insecurity, warning that military action alone cannot end the country’s security crisis.

Okogwu, in an article titled “The Man, The Rottweilers and The Marauders: Nigeria Cannot Afford to Keep Holding the Leash,” said effective governance, accountability, justice and strong leadership are crucial to achieving lasting peace.

He argued that despite the sacrifices of security personnel battling terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other violent crimes, insecurity continues to thrive due to governance failures, corruption, intelligence gaps and political interference.

Using the analogy of a wealthy estate owner who refused to unleash his trained Rottweiler dogs while marauders attacked his property, Okogwu said Nigeria’s security forces are often expected to deliver results while operating under severe constraints.

“The dogs represent the security forces, while the owner represents political leadership. Sometimes men and women on the frontlines are expected to win battles while operating under restrictions, inadequate support, conflicting directives and political interference,” he said.

According to him, security should not be treated solely as a military responsibility but as a national challenge requiring coordinated efforts across government institutions and society.

“Security cannot be achieved through weapons alone. Security requires effective governance, economic opportunity, community trust, technology, intelligence and justice. Most importantly, security requires leadership,” he stated.

Okogwu also raised concerns about the devastating impact of insecurity on Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), noting that attacks and displacement expose them to greater risks due to limited mobility and inadequate support systems.

He warned that the growing acceptance of violence as a normal part of life poses a grave danger to Nigeria’s future.

“The greatest danger before us is not simply the persistence of violence. The greatest danger is the acceptance of violence as normal and the belief that nothing can change,” he warned.

The ADC chieftain called on leaders at all levels to strengthen institutions, improve accountability, support security agencies and adopt a comprehensive strategy to restore public confidence and secure the country.