The Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa, has said that government alone cannot successfully address the security challenges facing Nigeria, urging citizens to actively support efforts aimed at combating insecurity.
Obasa made the remarks on Wednesday during the 17th Annual Hijrah Lecture and Du’a held at the Assembly Complex.
The event was themed, “Sacred Covenant of Citizenship: Islam, Security and Our Duty to the Nigerian State.”
Speaking at the gathering, the Speaker identified insecurity as one of the country’s most pressing challenges, stressing that education, healthcare, commerce, religious activities and other aspects of society can only flourish in a secure environment.
He urged Nigerians to view citizenship as a sacred responsibility that requires active participation in promoting peace, unity and national security.
According to Obasa, security should not be seen as the exclusive responsibility of government, but as a collective duty involving both leaders and citizens.
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“Security is one of the greatest blessings of Allah. Without it, worship is disrupted, commerce collapses, and education suffers.
But security is not the government’s duty alone. It is a shared responsibility. Citizens must report crimes, resist corruption and promote justice.
“Leaders must govern with fairness, transparency and compassion. Together, we form the covenant of citizenship,” he said.
Also speaking at the event, Lukman Abiodun Lawal agreed with the Speaker’s position, maintaining that government alone cannot solve the country’s security challenges.
Lawal called on human rights activists to conduct their advocacy responsibly and with wisdom, while also urging media organisations to avoid sensational reporting that could inadvertently aid criminal elements.
He stressed the need for responsible journalism and constructive public engagement in efforts to improve national security and social cohesion.