Nigeria's Security Policies Threaten Citizens – SAN

A senior legal practitioner from Nigeria, Professor Yusuf Ali, has warned that the country's security strategies are now more detrimenta...

A senior legal practitioner from Nigeria, Professor Yusuf Ali, has warned that the country's security strategies are now more detrimental to its people than beneficial.

Ali delivered a speech at the Gavel International Annual Lecture and Awards 2025, which took place on Tuesday at the Lagos Chambers of Commerce and Industry.

In his keynote speech, entitled "The Effect of National Security Measures on Marginalized Groups: A Human Rights Viewpoint," he expressed concern that anti-terrorism and policing approaches have moved away from constitutional and human rights protections.

Ali stated, "The truth is that numerous security protocols have made citizens the ones suffering."

We have established a system in which the people we are supposed to safeguard are being forced to leave, held in custody, and deprived of their respect under the pretense of national security.

He pointed out that the poor, women, children, and those who have been forced to leave their homes have suffered as unintended victims in Nigeria's struggle against terrorism, banditry, and separatist groups.

Ali called on decision-makers to implement a human-focused strategy, emphasizing respect for individuals, legal principles, and fairness in society.

"Real security cannot be attained through force alone. It involves safeguarding rights, promoting economic independence, and reinforcing democratic systems. If the government does not ensure fairness or fulfill fundamental requirements, a sense of insecurity will remain, regardless of the number of weapons or soldiers present," he stated.

Emphasizing the humanitarian emergency in the North-East and Middle Belt, Ali criticized the deteriorating conditions endured by millions of displaced individuals, stating that the absence of responsibility in security actions increases public distrust and fosters immunity for military and police units.

He condemned clauses within the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act 2022 that permit extended detention without trial, calling them unconstitutional and in violation of global human rights standards.

He cautioned, "Laws created to combat terrorism should not turn into instruments of fear. Safety must never serve as a justification for unfairness. Once people stop believing in the justice of the government, the struggle for national security has already been compromised."

From his perspective, retired Major General James Ataguba blamed corruption and inadequate accountability systems for Nigeria's lack of security.

He mentioned that the lack of repercussions for wrongdoing encourages criminal behavior and weakens public trust in leadership.

Ataguba stated, "The military is not meant to be stationed among civilians; that is the responsibility of the police. However, now, every part of this nation has military presence, causing conflicts where there shouldn't be any."

He also cautioned that combating insurgency involves confronting underlying issues like poverty, joblessness, and ineffective leadership, noting that military successes on their own are insufficient to eradicate terrorism.

Ataguba pointed out the risks associated with global stories, like mentions of "Christian genocide" by international figures, which might lead to actions based on the United Nations' Responsibility to Protect doctrine.

In the same way, Mr. Gbenga Omotoso, the Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, emphasized the importance of maintaining a balance between security and human rights, cautioning that measures that limit freedoms or neglect marginalized groups may increase inequality and instability.

"Security involves establishing a setting where individuals feel secure, appreciated, and part of the community," Omotoso stated.

Renowned Nigerian legal expert Dele Adesina has condemned the country's 1999 Constitution, highlighting its fundamental weaknesses, especially regarding the establishment of a centralized police system.

He advocated for changes to the constitution to create genuine federalism and enhance local authority in policing.

Previously, Mustapha Ogunsakin, founder of Gavel International, stated that the lecture was intended to draw attention to Nigeria's deteriorating security situation and the government's constitutional obligation to safeguard its people.

"The political elite has displayed apathy as the country faces turmoil. Leaders need to transcend party lines and come together against uncertainty," Ogunsakin stated.

Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (Syndigate.info).