The air in Kogi West has long been thick with a palpable unease. A region once known for its serene landscapes and bustling markets has been grappling with a surge in insecurity, a problem that has left residents feeling vulnerable and hopeless. From kidnappings to armed robberies and killings, the challenges are immense. Yet, a shift must be activated, as community leaders, security agencies, and ordinary citizens begin to channel their collective angst into tangible action.
The prevailing sense of fear has been a major inhibitor of economic and social life. Farmers are hesitant to work their fields, traders are wary of travelling, and families live in constant anxiety. This is not just a security crisis; it’s a profound threat to the region’s economic stability and social fabric. The helplessness felt by many has been a major factor, leading to a cycle of inaction and further vulnerability.
A New Approach: From Grief to Grit
Recognising that frustration alone cannot solve the problem, stakeholders in Kogi West must now adopt a multi-pronged approach to security. This shift from passive lamentation to active engagement will be the most significant development.
A powerful pointer to this welcome shift was the recent three-day protest by youths in Egbe. Instead of merely complaining, the youths took to the streets to voice their grievances and demand action, signalling their preparedness to move beyond lamentations and become part of the solution. This demonstration of collective will and readiness to take a stand will energise communities and put pressure on authorities to accelerate their efforts.
1. Community-Led Initiatives:
One of the most promising strategies will be a renewed focus on community-led security. Traditional rulers and community development associations must take the lead in reviving local vigilante groups. These groups, composed of youths who know the terrain, should be trained and equipped to work in synergy with official security forces. This model is based on the principle of “community policing,” where residents are the first line of defence, providing crucial intelligence and support. This approach will prove effective as the presence of these vigilante groups will deter criminal activities.
2. Leveraging Technology: In a region with vast, sometimes unmonitored spaces, technology will be a critical tool.
Young persons of Okun extraction have showcased their talents in the ability to put together drones. The government should urgently invite and engage them to construct drones, train those to operate them and deploy them across the state.
Drones being deployed will be used to patrol forests and highways, providing real-time intelligence on the movement of criminal gangs. Social media platforms and dedicated community apps should also be used to create secure communication channels for reporting suspicious activities. For example, a “Whistleblower App” can be put in place for residents to anonymously report threats, ensuring their safety while providing vital information to security agencies.
Collaboration and Synergy: The Way Forward
The success of these initiatives hinges on a strong partnership between all stakeholders. The Kogi State government, led by Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, has been proactive in this regard, providing vehicles and logistics to bolster the operational capacity of security agencies. Security summits should also be organised to facilitate dialogue and information-sharing among the Nigerian Police Force, the Army, the Department of State Services (DSS), and local vigilante groups.
This collaborative effort will address the root causes of insecurity. Poverty and unemployment are often drivers of crime. Therefore, efforts must be made to engage youths in productive ventures, providing them with skills and opportunities to prevent them from being recruited by criminal elements. This includes agricultural training programs, vocational skill acquisition centres, and small business grants.
The path ahead for Kogi West is long and fraught with challenges. However, the shift from a culture of despair to one of proactive engagement offers a glimmer of hope. It’s a powerful testament to the idea that when people decide to stop being victims and start becoming part of the solution, even the most daunting problems can be overcome. The collective will of the people, combined with strategic action and a strong partnership between the community and government, will prove to be the most effective weapon in the fight against insecurity.
– Apostle Charles Olalekan Aiyenigba
aiyenigbaolalekan63@gmail.com
