Ambassador Abayomi Nurain Mumuni, a prominent figure within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), has pointed to poverty and lack of economic opportunities as the primary factors driving insecurity in northern Nigeria.
In a statement released to journalists, Mumuni emphasized the need for a multi-faceted approach to effectively address the issue, proposing various solutions to tackle the root causes of insecurity in the region.
Mumuni, a former gubernatorial candidate of the defunct Congress for Progressives Change (CPC) in Lagos state, highlighted the pervasive influence of poverty and economic disenfranchisement in fostering a conducive environment for insecurity to thrive.
He stressed that while the creation of state police could offer potential solutions, it also carried inherent risks, particularly in exacerbating political hooliganism if not implemented with caution.
Expressing his support for the creation of state police, Mumuni cautioned against allowing the proposed security apparatus to carry firearms, advocating instead for a model akin to the Kano State Hisbah Board, which focused on addressing social vices.
The APC chieftain outlined a comprehensive strategy to address insecurity in northern Nigeria, which included investment in economic development projects, job creation initiatives, and infrastructural improvements.
He also emphasized the importance of social reforms, strengthening security forces, community engagement, and empowerment of women and youth as integral components of the solution.
”With poverty and economic disparity identified as key drivers of insecurity, there is an urgent need for a holistic approach to address the underlying causes of the crisis,” he stated.