Amid rising insecurity across Nigeria, civil society organisations in Akwa Ibom State have urged citizens to work with security agencies, especially by sharing intelligence, to combat terrorism.The call was made on Saturday during the ‘Akwa Ibom Unite Against Terror’ civic campaign organised by the Centre for Human Rights and Accountability Network, CHRAN.CHRAN State Director, Otuekong Franklyn Isong, said terrorism is a common enemy that destroys homes and communities, and is blind to religion, tribe, or social status.“Terrorism is a common enemy to all Nigerians. It knows no religion or tribe. As CSOs, we are uniting against it.
If you see something, say something. Collaborate with security agencies to fight terror. If you fail to report it, it will eventually affect you too,” he said.Also speaking, Clifford Thomas, Esq., Convener of the Akwa Ibom Human Rights Community, urged citizens to adopt local strategies to defend themselves and not wait to be attacked.Citing incidents in Bayelsa and Abia where community youths overpowered assailants, Thomas said Nigerians should use every lawful strategy to protect themselves.
He noted that self-defence is a fundamental right under Section 33(2) of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, and citizens should invoke it when confronted by terrorists.Thomas also called for state policing, saying it would significantly reduce insecurity.“We are all victims of terror; no one is spared. Communities must act, report to the appropriate authorities, and when action is delayed, look inward to protect your mothers, fathers, children, brothers and sisters. Don’t wait for the enemy to slaughter you. That doesn’t mean you should resort to violence.“Secondly, Commissioners of Police should be posted to their regions.
If an Akwa Ibom son is posted as CP in the state, we know him and how to hold him accountable. He will also be more committed to serving his people,” he added.Other CSO leaders who spoke, including Dr. Victor David of Vital Partners, said fighting insecurity is not the government’s job alone but requires collective commitment from all citizens.David urged Nigerians not to let insecurity destroy their unity, determine their future, or silence the country’s young democracy.“We demand a Nigeria where every citizen can travel safely, farm safely, work safely, worship safely, and vote safely,” he said.