LAGOS, Nigeria — The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has raised serious concerns over worsening insecurity across the country, warning that Nigeria’s democratic achievements are increasingly under threat as citizens continue to face kidnappings, killings, and violent attacks in different parts of the nation.
In a Democracy Day statement issued by its President, Afam Osigwe, the association said the meaning of June 12 extends beyond elections and must also reflect the protection of lives, respect for fundamental rights, and the overall welfare of citizens.
The NBA expressed particular concern over the continued captivity of schoolchildren and teachers abducted in Oyo State, urging security agencies to intensify efforts toward securing their immediate release. It described the situation as a troubling reminder of the vulnerability of educational institutions and communities to criminal attacks.
The association also referenced recent violent incidents in parts of the country, including reported attacks in Kogi State where armed assailants allegedly killed a school vice principal, a six-year-old child, and another individual during a school-related incident. It further cited cases of abductions in Zamfara State, where community elders on a peace mission were reportedly kidnapped.
According to the NBA, the frequency of such incidents suggests a worsening security environment in which criminal groups appear to operate with increasing confidence. It warned that this trend poses a serious threat to national stability and democratic governance.
The association called on the Federal Government and security agencies to treat the security crisis as a national emergency, stressing that the constitutional responsibility of government to protect lives and property must be urgently reinforced through coordinated and sustained action.
It added that democracy can only thrive in an environment where citizens are able to live, work, and pursue their aspirations without fear. The NBA noted that the ideals associated with the June 12 democratic struggle cannot be fully realised if insecurity continues to undermine public safety.
The body also urged public office holders to uphold accountability, transparency, and the rule of law, while calling on legal practitioners and judicial institutions to safeguard democratic processes and strengthen public confidence in governance ahead of future elections.
