EiE Accuses Nigerian Government of Constitutional Breach Over Plateau, Borno, Kwara Killings
The civil society organization Enough is Enough Nigeria (EiE) has issued a scathing critique of the Federal Government, accusing it of failing in its constitutional duty to protect citizens' lives. This condemnation follows a series of deadly attacks in Plateau, Borno, and Kwara states that have resulted in the deaths of over 200 Nigerians in less than two months. In a strongly worded statement, EiE described these incidents as evidence of systemic governance and security failures, rather than isolated events, warning that continued inaction undermines public trust and violates fundamental constitutional obligations.
Recent Attacks Highlight Security Lapses
The latest tragedy occurred on March 29, 2026, when gunmen invaded the Angwan Rukuba community in Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State, killing at least 28 residents. This attack followed earlier devastating incidents, including coordinated suicide bombings in Maiduguri on March 16 that claimed 27 lives and left 146 injured, as well as a massacre on February 3 in Woro and Nuku communities in Kwara State, where the Red Cross reported no fewer than 162 fatalities. EiE pointed out that many of these attacks were preceded by credible warnings that went unaddressed by security agencies, with communities in Kwara reportedly receiving threats for months prior to the violence.
Constitutional Mandate and Government Failure
Citing section 14(2)(b) of the 1999 Constitution (as altered), which states that "the security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government," EiE argued that the persistent killings demonstrate a clear breach of this constitutional mandate. The organization criticized what it described as a recurring pattern of official response, including condemnations, promises of investigations, and security deployments that yield no tangible outcomes. Ufuoma Nnamdi-Udeh, Executive Director of EiE, questioned the characterization of the situation as a crisis, asserting instead that it reflects a "complete government failure."
Demands for Accountability and Reform
EiE raised alarm over statements attributed to some security officials suggesting leniency for perpetrators, describing such positions as dangerous and capable of emboldening further violence. Among its key demands, the organization called for:
- Immediate and structured protection of vulnerable communities.
- Transparent and time-bound investigations into all attacks.
- Prosecution of perpetrators and publication of investigation statuses by the Attorney General of the Federation and state Attorneys General.
- Public accountability from the National Security Adviser and military leadership for intelligence lapses.
- A comprehensive review of Nigeria's national security strategy, emphasizing prevention, community-based early warning systems, and improved civil-military coordination.
While acknowledging recent measures such as curfews and troop deployments, EiE argued that these responses are largely reactive and insufficient to guarantee long-term safety. The organization concluded that the legitimacy of any government hinges on its ability to protect citizens, warning that continued failure risks deepening insecurity and eroding confidence in public institutions. EiE pledged to continue monitoring developments and pushing for accountability, urging Nigerians to demand more decisive action from authorities in line with constitutional provisions.
