society

Under Siege: Nigeria’s Spiraling Insecurity in the Tinubu Era

Published

2 months ago

March 17, 2026

Sahara Weekly

Under Siege: Nigeria’s Spiraling Insecurity in the Tinubu Era

By George Omagbemi Sylvester

“As Violence and Kidnappings Surge, Nigerians Face a Humanitarian and Security Crisis Amid Perceived Government Inaction”

Since President Bola Ahmed Tinubu assumed office on May 29, 2023, the promise of a “Renewed Hope” has been starkly overshadowed by a relentless wave of violence and insecurity across Nigeria. Despite early pledges to prioritise national safety, the reality for millions has been a harrowing descent into a pervasive climate of fear. From the rugged terrains of the Northwest to the insurgent‑heavy Northeast, criminal cartels, bandits and extremist groups continue to challenge the state’s ability to protect its citizens.

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Independent monitoring groups and international bodies such as Amnesty International estimate that over 10,000 Nigerians have lost their lives in violent attacks since Tinubu took office. Alongside this grim death toll is the dramatic escalation of abductions and the “kidnap‑for‑ransom” economy, which reportedly drained more than $1.4 billion (about ₦2.23 trillion) from families in the administration’s first year alone. This financial drain has compounded psychological trauma and deepened economic hardship.

“Nigeria’s security crisis is not merely a law enforcement problem,” says Prof. Abuja‑based security analyst Dr. Chukwuemeka Eze, “it is a symptom of systemic governance failure; where the state cannot guarantee the safety of its citizens.”

In the Northwest and Northcentral regions (including states such as Zamfara, Kaduna and Plateau) armed gangs have razed villages and forced farmers to pay “harvest levies” just to access their own lands. This has devastated local food systems and contributed to rising inflation.

Meanwhile, in the Northeast, fractious insurgent groups such as Islamic State West Africa Province and factions of Boko Haram continue to mount attacks against military and civilian targets. While the military claims to have “degraded” these groups, they remain capable of coordinated assaults, keeping large areas of the region under persistent threat.

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Adding a new layer of complexity is the emergence of the “Lakurawa” group in the Sokoto‑Kebbi axis, signalling that old threats persist even as new ones take root.

Critics argue that the Tinubu administration’s focus on economic reforms (such as fuel subsidy removal and currency realignment) has come at the expense of human security. Former defence policy adviser Prof. Ayo Ajayi of Ahmadu Bello University notes, “Security is the foundation of economic growth. Without it, reforms risk becoming hollow promises for millions who live daily under threat.”

Late in 2025, President Tinubu declared a national security emergency and authorised the recruitment of additional security personnel. However, many Nigerians perceive these measures as reactive rather than proactive. The government’s increased reliance on non‑kinetic strategies (such as negotiations and amnesties for some criminal elements) has been met with scepticism.

Observers argue this approach has inadvertently emboldened criminal networks, turning kidnapping into a low‑risk, high‑reward enterprise. Although the state has acquired new military hardware and reshuffled service chiefs, these changes have yet to translate into a sense of safety for ordinary citizens.

The situation is not merely a security challenge but a humanitarian crisis. Civilians are being displaced, families are paying enormous ransoms under duress, and school abductions have uprooted thousands of students from classrooms.

Political scientist Dr. Yemi Ogunleye of the University of Lagos warns, “When the monopoly of coercive force shifts from the state to non‑state actors, the very fabric of democracy is threatened. Citizens must feel safe within their borders; otherwise governance itself becomes irrelevant.”

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) insists it has the experience and strategy necessary to confront Nigeria’s security challenges, arguing that decisive leadership and strengthened community defence initiatives are critical. Many Nigerians now look back on previous administrations with the hope that a change in leadership might bring a corresponding shift in national safety and stability.

Until the state can effectively reclaim its monopoly on the use of force and protect lives and properties, the “Renewed Hope” agenda will continue to ring hollow for millions living in the shadow of insecurity.

Published on Tuesday, March 17, 2026

society

Ajadi Picks APM Senate Nomination Form, Declares Readiness for Oyo Central Contest

Published

6 hours ago

May 18, 2026

Sahara Weekly

Ajadi Picks APM Senate Nomination Form, Declares Readiness for Oyo Central Contest

The political atmosphere at the Oyo State Secretariat of Allied Peoples’ Movement (APM) came alive on Monday as Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo officially picked the party’s nomination form to contest for the Oyo Central Senatorial District seat, amid cheers from party members, supporters, and political associates who thronged the venue.

The event, held in Ibadan, was marked by songs, chants, and displays of solidarity as supporters described Ajadi’s entry into the senatorial race as a major boost for the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Addressing journalists shortly after obtaining the nomination form, Ajadi said his decision to join the race was driven by a desire to offer purposeful representation and impactful leadership to the people of Oyo Central.

“I have answered the call of my people and my party. Today marks the beginning of a renewed political journey aimed at giving the good people of Oyo Central quality representation, responsive governance, and a voice that will be heard clearly at the National Assembly,” he said.

He added that his aspiration was not merely about occupying political office, but about creating opportunities for youths, empowering women, and advocating policies that would improve infrastructure, education, and economic growth in the district.

Speaking on the party’s prospects in the forthcoming elections, Ajadi expressed confidence that the APM would record significant victories in Oyo State and beyond.

“By the grace of God and with the support of the people, APM will win the presidential election, produce the next governor of Oyo State, and secure victories in the senatorial, House of Representatives, and State Assembly elections. Our party is growing stronger daily, and Nigerians are ready for a credible alternative,” he said.

Supporters at the event described Ajadi’s declaration as a significant moment for the party, expressing confidence that his grassroots popularity and philanthropic activities would strengthen the APM’s chances in the elections.

Ajadi, a businessman, philanthropist, and prominent political figure in Oyo State, has remained active in Nigeria’s political landscape through advocacy for youth inclusion in governance and democratic reforms.

Political observers said his formal entry into the senatorial race could alter the dynamics of political competition in Oyo Central, a district considered strategic in Oyo State politics because of its voting strength and influence.

society

Prophet Aitafo Flags Off 3-Day Christian Revival in Ogun

Published

7 hours ago

May 18, 2026

Sahara Weekly

Prophet Aitafo Flags Off 3-Day Christian Revival in Ogun

The leadership of CCC Living Grace Tabernacle, in conjunction with Oneness in Christ Ministry, has announced plans for a three-day open revival aimed at promoting spiritual awakening, praise and Christian unity in Ogun State.

The programme, themed, “Come Let’s Give Him Praise,” is scheduled to hold from May 28 to May 30, 2026, at 20 Showole Street, Ewupe, Singer, Sango area of Ogun State.

According to the organisers, the revival will run daily from 5pm to 8pm and feature gospel ministrations, praise worship sessions and revival teachings.

The event flyer revealed that gospel ministers expected to feature during the programme include Evangelist Norton Adeyemi, Evangelist Leke Olulana, Evangelist Micheal Oyegunle and Evangelist Abey Olaniyi.

Also expected to minister in songs are gospel singers identified as Arinola, Irenise and Gbemi Dynamics.

Speaking on the forthcoming revival, the host and shepherd-in-charge, Prophet Aitafo Oladapo Kingsley, said the gathering was organised to draw people closer to God through heartfelt praise and spiritual renewal.

He noted that the programme would also provide an avenue for worshippers and residents within the community to seek divine intervention and experience spiritual revival.

The organisers called on Christians and members of the public to attend the programme, describing it as an opportunity for worship, healing and rededication to God.

The event is being hosted under the Oneness in Christ platform in collaboration with CCC Living Grace Tabernacle.

society

How Primate Ayodele Foretold Fresh Outbreak Of Ebola Virus In Africa (VIDEO)

Published

8 hours ago

May 18, 2026

Sahara Weekly

W’ Cup Qualifiers: How Super Eagles Coach Ruined Nigeria’s Chances by Ignoring Primate Ayodele’s Warnings* By Adedayo Olumide

How Primate Ayodele Foretold Fresh Outbreak Of Ebola Virus In Africa (VIDEO)

At least 100 deaths have been reported in an Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo, with more than 390 cases suspected, the head of the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention has told the BBC.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the outbreak an international emergency.

The current strain of Ebola is caused by the Bundibugyo virus, for which there are no approved drugs or vaccines.

There are also two confirmed cases and one death in Uganda, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

This unfortunate incident is coming after Nigerian prophet, Primate Elijah Ayodele repeatedly warned that there will be fresh outbreak of Ebola Virus in Africa.

He even went as far as mentioning the countries that will be affected by the virus, while warning the world health organization to take note of the disease.

These were his words:
“Ebola; Uganda, Sudan, Cameroun, Tanzania, DR Congo, watch out….”

@primateayodele

#africa #health #ebola #mpox #primateayodele

♬ original sound – Primate Ayodele

Also in his prophecies for the new year which was released in December 2025, Primate Ayodele mentioned that there will be outbreak of Ebola virus in some countries in Africa which will lead to death of people.

These were his words:
“I foresee a lot of health challenges will surface in Africa namely Ebola, Tuberculosis, Jaundice, Lassa fever, migraine and another form of covid. I foresee chicken pox and another disease will break out in Nigeria.”

As he warned, the new wave of the virus as fulfilled Primate Ayodele’s prophecy.