Retired military officers led by Brig.-Gen. Ismaila Abdullahi (rtd) have warned that terrorism, banditry, and kidnapping are no longer problems confined to Northern Nigeria but have evolved into a nationwide security threat requiring urgent and collective action.
The former officers made the remarks on Thursday evening in Kaduna during an event held in honour of the late Maj. Gen. Rabe Abubakar, who died while in the custody of bandits in Katsina State.
The group rejected narratives that place blame solely on the North, describing such views as divisive and counterproductive. They questioned what they called “selective outrage” over insecurity and pointed to increasing attacks across different regions of the country.
“Can any part of this nation remain unconcerned by the current onslaught?” the retired officers asked, stressing that the security crisis affects every Nigerian regardless of location.
They called on the 19 Northern governors to establish a joint security framework and urged political leaders to demonstrate stronger commitment in tackling insecurity. According to them, while international partnerships remain important, Nigeria must take the lead in defending itself.
Although the late general’s wife was rescued during a government operation, the officers emphasized the need for continued support for families of victims and demanded urgent measures to secure the release of all those still held captive.
They further appealed for national unity and coordinated efforts to confront the growing security challenges facing the country.
