The alarming resurgence of violence across Nigeria, from Boko Haram's renewed attacks in Borno to the widespread killings by armed herdsmen in Kastina, Benue, Plateau, Ebonyi, and Enugu states, paints a grim picture of a nation struggling to maintain its territorial integrity and protect its citizens. Recent statements by governor, Borno’s Babagana Zulum, highlight the scale of the crisis and the urgent need for coordinated action.
El-Rufai's Controversial Perspective on Banditry
In 2021, Kaduna State former Governor Nasir El-Rufai drew criticism for his remarks distinguishing bandits from separatist groups like IPOB. He described bandits as "independent criminals" engaged in business rather than political rebellion. “Bandits are just collections of independent criminals. It is a business for them. It is not a case of Nigeria must break up,” he said. While his comments were intended to highlight the decentralized nature of banditry, they inadvertently downplayed the devastating impact of these criminal networks on communities and national stability.
Fast forward to 2025, El-Rufai’s earlier remarks seem disconnected from the current realities. Banditry has evolved into a sophisticated network that mirrors insurgency in its scale and impact. In Plateau State alone, Governor Caleb Muftwang recently revealed that bandits have seized control of 64 communities, describing the violence as "sponsored genocide." The situation underscores the inadequacy of previous narratives that framed banditry as mere criminal enterprise.
Borno: Losing Ground to Boko Haram
Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum has issued stark warnings about Boko Haram's resurgence. Speaking on April 9, 2025, Zulum lamented that the state is “losing ground” as militants launch daily attacks on communities and military bases. The insurgency, which has claimed over 40,000 lives and displaced more than two million people since 2009, shows no signs of abating. Analysts attribute this resurgence to diverted military resources and reduced regional cooperation following Niger's withdrawal from anti-insurgency operations.
Zulum’s call for advanced military support highlights the pressing need for federal intervention. However, the Nigerian government’s insistence that security has improved over the past 18 months contrasts sharply with the realities on the ground.
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Southern States Under Siege
In southern states like Benue, Ebonyi, Enugu, and Plateau, herdsmen attacks have reached unprecedented levels. Recent incidents include the killing of scores in Ebonyi’s Amegu Nkalaha community and multiple ambushes in Benue that left soldiers and civilians dead.
Women in Enugu have staged protests against rape and mutilation by herdsmen who occupy their farmlands. These attacks have displaced thousands and disrupted farming activities, exacerbating food insecurity.
Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu and other leaders have implemented security measures to protect rural dwellers, but these efforts have been insufficient to stem the tide of violence.
A Call for Unified Action
The current insecurity crisis demands a unified approach that transcends political rhetoric. While governors some governors have called for decisive action against bandits and insurgents, their earlier dismissive remarks undermine public confidence in their commitment to addressing these issues comprehensively.
To combat this multifaceted crisis:
- The federal government must deploy advanced technology and intelligence to dismantle criminal networks.
- Regional cooperation should be strengthened to address cross-border insurgency.
- Community-based security initiatives must be supported to empower local populations against attackers.
The stakes are high for Nigeria as it grapples with an existential threat that endangers its unity and future stability. Without immediate and coordinated action, the country risks further descent into chaos.