Civil rights activists and organizations have strongly criticized Nigeria's security architecture, calling for urgent reforms. The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) and the Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) have voiced their concerns over what they describe as institutional collapse and worsening insecurity across the country.
CISLAC Highlights Institutional Collapse
Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, Executive Director of CISLAC, criticized the security sector, pointing to corruption, poor coordination, and conflicting government claims on anti-terror operations. He noted that recent controversies, such as the reported killing of an ISIS deputy leader, have created confusion among Nigerians. Rafsanjani stated, "Our government in 2024 also claimed to have killed the same person."
He acknowledged the efforts of security personnel but argued that structural weaknesses undermine progress. "Part of the challenge is because of the institutional collapse and personalisation of the security sector, coupled with massive corruption," he said. Rafsanjani called for comprehensive reforms, emphasizing that Nigeria cannot rely heavily on foreign assistance. "The Americans cannot solve all their problems. You must do your own bit," he added.
He also criticized the government's priorities, alleging that more attention is given to political interests ahead of the 2027 elections rather than citizens' welfare. Rafsanjani urged the Federal Government to implement sweeping reforms, improve accountability, and restore public confidence in security institutions.
HURIWA Demands Sack of Top Officials
HURIWA called on President Bola Tinubu to sack the Chief of Defence Staff, National Security Adviser, Director-General of the Department of State Services, military intelligence chiefs, and other service commanders. The organization accused them of failing to protect Nigerians from terrorism, kidnappings, and violent attacks.
In a statement by its National Coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko, HURIWA highlighted recent incidents, including the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State, as evidence that insecurity has spread into the South-West. The group criticized the Defence Headquarters for dismissing concerns over terrorist activities in the region, stating, "The claim that terrorists have no operational base in the South-West is not only shocking but dangerously deceptive."
HURIWA described the country as "a nation under siege," with terrorists and bandits operating freely. It noted that communities across the North-East, North-West, Middle Belt, and parts of the South-West have suffered repeated attacks, forcing residents to flee and abandon economic activities.
The organization also accused the Federal Government of retaining security officials whose performances have failed to inspire public confidence. It warned against ethnic and political considerations in security appointments, arguing that competence and accountability should take priority in the fight against terrorism.
