When non-state actors begin to exercise governmental functions such as taxation and enforcement, the social contract between citizens and the government risks being fundamentally undermined
By Shu’aibu Usman Leman
The recent capture of two senior leaders of the Ansaru terror group is a development worthy of praise and reflects the dedication and resilience of Nigeria’s security apparatus. The National Security Adviser, Malam Nuhu Ribadu, was right to announce the arrest of Mahmud Muhammad Usman (alias Abu Bara’a) and his deputy Mahmud al-Nigeri (alias Malam Mamuda). Ansaru, a faction known for its violent activities and connections to international terror networks, has been linked to some of the nation’s most high-profile security challenges over the past decade.
This operation, the result of a sustained and intelligence-driven effort, represents a tangible success in the fight against terrorism. The recovery of digital evidence from these leaders offers hope for a deeper understanding and disruption of the terror networks that threaten Nigeria’s peace and stability. We owe a debt of gratitude to the courageous men and women of the security forces who risk so much to keep our nation safe.
However, as we rightly celebrate this achievement, it’s also necessary to reflect on the broader context in which such victories occur. While the capture of key terror operatives is undoubtedly important, it’s just one piece of a much larger jigsaw. Nigeria continues to grapple with a complex and evolving security crisis that challenges the very foundations of state authority and governance in several regions.
READ ALSO:
The children the North refuses to see
In states such as Zamfara, where farmers have found themselves forced to pay exorbitant “protection fees” to access land they’ve nurtured for generations, the situation goes beyond isolated criminality. This is indicative of a broader erosion of the state’s ability to assert its legitimate authority. The implications are grave: when non-state actors begin to exercise governmental functions such as taxation and enforcement, the social contract between citizens and the government risks being fundamentally undermined.
This troubling trend is mirrored in parts of the North and Middle Belt, where armed groups—including criminal syndicates, local militias, and terror factions—effectively operate as parallel authorities. They impose restrictions on movement, levy taxes, and dictate local economic activity. The consequences for ordinary Nigerians are devastating: displacement, loss of livelihood, and an everyday existence overshadowed by fear.
The situation in Niger State poignantly illustrates these challenges. Despite commendable efforts by the military and security agencies, many communities remain under siege, caught in the crossfire of violent confrontations. Entire villages have been emptied, schools have closed, and farmers have abandoned their fields. For many Nigerians living in these areas, daily life is a struggle for survival amid persistent insecurity.
These challenges extend beyond isolated states or communities. The recurring violence and unrest in Plateau and Benue States—marked by episodes of mass killings and the destruction of villages—highlight a national crisis that demands urgent and sustained attention. The human toll and the displacement of countless citizens are matters of deep national concern.
While it’s true that these circumstances are immensely complex, requiring multifaceted responses, it’s also apparent that the federal government’s engagement with these crises could benefit from a renewed focus and urgency. We recognise that governing a country as vast and diverse as Nigeria is no easy task. Yet, the people deserve and expect a government that demonstrates an unwavering commitment to their safety and well-being.
It’s essential to emphasise that Nigerians don’t seek miracles but yearn for a government that is present, responsive, and accountable. They long for leadership that extends beyond symbolic gestures and photo opportunities, one that listens attentively to their concerns and acts decisively on their behalf.
There is a significant disparity between the nation’s considerable security budget and the persistent insecurity experienced by its citizens. Despite billions of naira allocated annually, many Nigerians remain unable to travel safely, tend to their farms, or rest peacefully in their homes. The expanding displacement camps across various states are an indication of this reality.
Moreover, the perception of uneven governmental responses to crises in different parts of the country is a source of concern. Rapid moves to declare state of emergency in a politically sensitive area, contrasted with measured or delayed reactions to widespread violence in other regions, risk deepening feelings of marginalisation and disenfranchisement among affected communities. An equitable and impartial approach to security challenges is vital to preserving national unity.
It’s worth recalling that in 2014, then-opposition leader Bola Tinubu raised a poignant question regarding territorial control and the role of the armed forces. That question remains just as relevant today, as more communities find themselves under the shadow of armed groups. The urgent need for clear-eyed, courageous leadership has never been more pressing.
This discourse is not intended to be a partisan debate but to underscore a shared national responsibility. The survival and prosperity of Nigeria depend on collective efforts to address the systemic security challenges before us. Arresting individual perpetrators is a critical step, but it can’t be a substitute for a comprehensive strategy that restores the state’s authority and delivers sustainable peace.
In this light, the Nigerian government is encouraged to build upon recent successes with renewed vigour and a holistic approach. Strategic reforms, improved coordination among security agencies, and genuine community engagement must form the backbone of efforts going forward. Protecting citizens in their homes, farms, schools, and public spaces should be the government’s foremost priority.
The time for measured and courageous action is now. Nigeria’s people have demonstrated remarkable resilience amid adversity, but their patience is not limitless. The government’s commitment to their protection and welfare must be clear, consistent, and unwavering.
If the state is to reclaim its rightful role as guarantor of peace and security, it must prioritise presence over rhetoric, action over words, and unity over division. The challenges are formidable, but with resolve, vision, and inclusive leadership, Nigeria can overcome them.
In conclusion, while the recent arrests mark a significant milestone, they’re just the beginning of a much longer journey towards restoring lasting peace and security. The nation calls upon its leaders to heed this call, redouble their efforts, and demonstrate the leadership that Nigerians deserve and urgently need.
