.jpeg "To combat insecurity, CERLSI urges the FG to establish a counter-kidnapping team.")
Bob MajiriOghene Etemiku, the Deputy Executive Director of CERLSI, expressed concern in Benin on Thursday on the current state of Nigerians residing in the North West region. He emphasized that these individuals are living in a constant state of fear and vigilance, as they are constantly on edge and unable to fully relax.
According to Etemiku, the safeguarding of lives and property, as well as the provision of security for the populace, constitutes a fundamental constitutional benchmark that governments worldwide are obligated to fulfill for their citizens.
During the previous tenure of President Muhammadu Buhari, it seemed that these concerns were effectively addressed at an early stage. However, it is disconcerting to observe the resurgence of kidnapping and abductions in the regions of North East and North West Nigeria.
Etemiku advocated for the establishment of a counter-kidnapping squad (CKS), comprising highly skilled military, police, and paramilitary personnel, tasked with gathering and overseeing intelligence in regions where cases of ransom-based kidnappings are prevalent.
The individuals residing in the North West region have a state of insecure living conditions. The collaboration with them is hindered due to persistent security concerns, which pose obstacles to our efforts in the domains of capacity development and electoral processes, as stated by Etemiku.
According to his statement, CERLSI aims to actively involve individuals in matters pertaining to elections, the rule of law, human rights, and community advocacy.