Falana Urges FG to End Killings, Calls for State Police and Restructuring
- Afenifere Backs State Policing, Urges Restructuring
Prominent human rights lawyer, Femi Falana (SAN), has called on the Federal Government to urgently put an end to the incessant killings and abductions of unarmed citizens across the country especially in Benue and Plateau states. He described the escalating violence as both unacceptable and preventable.
Falana, who chairs the Alliance on Surviving COVID-19 and Beyond (ASCAB), issued a statement yesterday condemning the repeated attacks by armed herders and gunmen targeting vulnerable communities.
He, however, praised the prompt response of security agencies in the recent Uromi, Edo State incident, where 16 people were killed and 14 suspects arrested swiftly. He also commended Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, for his proactive efforts, including his visit to Kano State to meet with Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf and the bereaved families, offering compensation to the victims’ families.
In contrast, Falana expressed disappointment that similar attention had not been given to victims in Benue and Plateau, where many lives were lost in continuous attacks. He urged the Attorneys-General of Edo, Benue, and Plateau to ensure all suspects in custody are charged without delay to prevent further breakdown of law and order.
He also emphasized the need for stronger cooperation between citizens and security operatives, encouraging communities to share intelligence and useful information.
“To achieve security, the Nigerian state must earn the trust and cooperation of its people. We cannot afford to remain passive while our citizens are killed or abducted daily,” Falana said.
Meanwhile, the Pan-Yoruba socio-cultural group Afenifere has urged the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, to collaborate closely with state governors to tackle Nigeria’s persistent security challenges.
The call came after a caucus meeting held at the Akure home of Afenifere leader, Pa Reuben Fasoranti.
The group reiterated its longstanding advocacy for state police and restructuring, arguing that true federalism remains the most effective path toward resolving Nigeria’s socio-political and economic instability. Afenifere urged President Bola Tinubu to act swiftly in restructuring the country’s security Architecture.
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