Politicization of Security Threatens Nigeria's Stability

The article by Akin Olukiran addresses the politicization of security in Nigeria, where insecurity is manipulated for political advantage. It describes how violence, including terrorism and kidnapping, has become a strategic tool in political contests, posing a direct threat to the legitimacy of the state.

The author points out that the most affected are vulnerable groups, particularly schoolchildren from disadvantaged communities, whose pursuit of education is jeopardized. The article notes a troubling trend where political elites exploit insecurity for electoral gains, leading to a breakdown of the social contract between the government and citizens.

It references the historical context of political violence in Nigeria, indicating that non-state actors thrive in a politically fragmented environment. The piece underscores the need for a reevaluation of the relationship between security and politics, as the erosion of state authority and the manipulation of fear have profound implications for democracy and societal stability.