Arise TV journalist Rufai Oseni has sparked debate after questioning whether the Nigerian government is genuinely prepared to bring the country’s insecurity crisis to an end.
In a statement circulating online, Oseni argued that the government has the capacity to significantly reduce insecurity if there is sufficient political will to do so.
He questioned why criminal activities continue despite the fact that those involved are not completely detached from the communities where they operate.
Oseni also suggested that Nigerians have become accustomed to avoiding difficult conversations about insecurity and governance, arguing that speaking openly about the problems often creates controversy.
His comments came in the wake of remarks made by social media activist VeryDarkMan at the 2026 Nigerian Bar Association Annual General Conference, where the activist reportedly raised concerns about insecurity and alleged links between criminal activities and influential figures.
Oseni questioned what was supposedly wrong with VeryDarkMan’s remarks, asking whether the activist had simply voiced concerns that Nigerians have discussed privately for years.
The journalist’s comments have generated reactions because they touch on one of Nigeria’s most persistent challenges. Insecurity, including kidnapping, banditry and attacks on communities, continues to generate public concern and demands for stronger action from authorities.
Oseni’s argument essentially centres on political will and accountability. His position suggests that tackling insecurity requires more than security operations alone and may also involve addressing the networks, incentives and individuals that allow criminal activities to continue.
The comments have also reignited a broader debate about the role of journalists, activists and public commentators in challenging government institutions.
Supporters of Oseni’s position argue that public officials should be able to respond to difficult questions about insecurity rather than becoming defensive when criticism is directed at government policies.
Others may disagree with the sweeping nature of the claim that insecurity could simply end whenever the government chooses, pointing to the complexity of Nigeria’s security challenges and the involvement of multiple criminal networks.
For now, Oseni’s remarks have added another voice to the growing public conversation about Nigeria’s security crisis and the responsibility of government to protect citizens.
The debate also highlights the continuing tension between public criticism, government accountability and the demand for concrete action as Nigerians call for lasting solutions to insecurity.
