Former Deputy Speaker Prince Chibudom Nwuche urges urgent reforms in Nigeria’s security architecture, addressing banditry, terrorism, and Fulani herdsmen attacks

Former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Prince Chibudom Nwuche, has called for urgent reforms to address Nigeria’s persistent security challenges, highlighting the role of bandits, armed Fulani herdsmen, and terrorist groups in recent attacks across the country.

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In an interview with Mike Odiegwu, Nwuche commended President Bola Tinubu for the prompt rescue of schoolchildren in Niger and Kebbi States, describing the military’s efforts as “already effective” following the replacement of service chiefs and security architecture reforms.

Nwuche stressed the importance of national unity, urging Fulani elders to restrain youths involved in acts of terror.

He warned that attacks linked to one ethnic group could heighten resentment and undermine cohesion.

“If one tribe is seen to be terrorising the country, it will create resentment from other tribes and would not be good for national unity and cohesion,” he said.

The former lawmaker also noted a historical pattern of increased insecurity during election periods, citing the 2015 elections as a precedent for the alleged importation of terrorists to influence political outcomes.

He praised the Nigerian army for continued resilience despite challenges and mourned the death of General Uba at the hands of terrorists.

Addressing the withdrawal of police protection from VIPs and calls to arm citizens, Nwuche said the public must feel secure, not just political elites.

He advocated for responsible licensing of firearms, state-funded vigilantes, and the establishment of state police to allow communities to defend themselves against attacks, citing repeated killings in Plateau and Benue States as examples.

On claims that Fulani herdsmen are pursuing jihadist or land-grabbing agendas, Nwuche said evidence suggests targeted attacks on specific communities.

He urged the government to pursue both perpetrators and their sponsors to prevent escalation.

Regarding potential incursions into the Southsouth, including Rivers State, he cautioned that local communities would resist any attempts at displacement.

Nwuche concluded that failure to adequately protect citizens could prompt widespread self-help and proliferation of arms, increasing the risk of inter-ethnic conflict.

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He called for immediate government intervention to de-escalate tensions and restore a secure environment for all Nigerians.