Dr. Daniel Iworiso-Markson, host of the First Daily National Dialogue on Security, has called on the Federal Government to adopt a more decisive approach in tackling banditry, kidnapping, insurgency and other criminal activities threatening Nigeria.
Iworiso-Markson made the call while delivering his opening remarks at the dialogue, organised as part of activities marking the sixth anniversary of First Daily Media Network, in Abuja on Tuesday.
Before commencing the event, the host led participants in observing a minute’s silence in honour of victims who lost their lives after being kidnapped or killed by bandits and other criminal groups.
He expressed concern over the worsening security situation in the country, saying Nigeria could no longer continue to endure attacks by terrorists, bandits and criminal networks.
“Now is the time to call on the Federal Government to declare total war against banditry, against insurgency, against kidnapping and every form of criminal enterprise rising in our country today,” he said.
“Enough of the bloodshed. Our nation is bleeding, and may I add that our nation is bleeding profusely.”
Drawing lessons from history, Iworiso-Markson referenced the experience of former British Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain and his policy of appeasement towards Adolf Hitler before World War II, warning against allowing criminals to mistake restraint for weakness.
He said surrendering ground to violent groups only emboldens them, adding that societies must show courage and determination when confronted by threats.
“A bully is a bully. Call it by whatever name you want to call it. The more ground you surrender to this bully, the bolder the bully becomes,” he said.
Iworiso-Markson, while crediting the analogy to former presidential adviser Senator Babafemi Ojudu, argued that Nigeria must move beyond prolonged negotiations and reconciliation efforts with criminal elements.
“I believe very strongly that the time for amnesty and reconciliation is over,” he said, stressing the need for stronger measures against armed groups and their collaborators.
His remarks come amid continued concerns over insecurity across several parts of Nigeria, including persistent attacks, kidnappings and bandit activities that have placed pressure on security agencies and intensified calls for reforms in the country’s security architecture.
The First Daily National Dialogue on Security brings together government officials, security experts, policymakers, military officers, media professionals and other stakeholders to examine solutions to Nigeria’s security challenges.
Iworiso-Markson urged participants to actively contribute ideas during the dialogue, noting that the purpose of the gathering was to share perspectives and develop practical solutions capable of improving security outcomes in the country.
He also thanked dignitaries and guests for attending, saying their participation reflected a collective commitment to finding solutions to Nigeria’s security challenges.