Public affairs commentator Mahdi Shehu has blamed the increasing wave of killings across Nigeria on what he described as the government’s continued engagement with criminal elements.
In a post shared on his X handle on Friday, Shehu expressed deep concern over the apparent surge in violent incidents nationwide, noting that the trend has intensified in recent months.
According to him, the rate of killings has risen sharply since late 2025, with a more noticeable escalation between February 2026 and now.
He warned that both civilians and security personnel have been affected, with no clear indication that the violence is abating.
Shehu described the attacks as deliberate and systematic, adding that Nigeria’s security architecture is under significant strain.
He argued that security agencies are overstretched and inadequately equipped compared to the capabilities of criminal groups.
The analyst further criticised policies he believes reward criminal behaviour, particularly negotiations and amnesty programmes extended to armed groups.
READ ALSO:Â Fuel Subsidy Removal Protects Corruption, Mahdi Shehu Alleges
He maintained that such approaches embolden perpetrators rather than deter them.
He also called for an end to what he described as the legitimisation of criminal elements through traditional titles, public recognition, and political appointments.
According to him, meaningful progress can only be achieved when criminality is confronted without compromise.
Beyond security operations, Shehu pointed to deeper systemic issues, including electoral malpractice and institutional weaknesses, as underlying drivers of the crisis.
He stressed the need for credible elections, judicial integrity, and equal enforcement of the law.
He urged authorities to prioritise justice, fairness, and accountability, warning against selective prosecution.
He also called on citizens to play a more active role in governance, noting that public engagement is essential to national reform.
Shehu concluded that sustainable progress depends on a democratic system that functions on transparency, equity, and the rule of law, cautioning that anything short of these principles would fail to address Nigeria’s security challenges.
Mahdi Shehu Blames Rising Killings On Government Concessions To Criminals
Public affairs commentator Mahdi Shehu has blamed the increasing wave of killings across Nigeria on what he described as the government’s continued engagement with criminal elements.
In a post shared on his X handle on Friday, Shehu expressed deep concern over the apparent surge in violent incidents nationwide, noting that the trend has intensified in recent months.
According to him, the rate of killings has risen sharply since late 2025, with a more noticeable escalation between February 2026 and now.
He warned that both civilians and security personnel have been affected, with no clear indication that the violence is abating.
Shehu described the attacks as deliberate and systematic, adding that Nigeria’s security architecture is under significant strain.
He argued that security agencies are overstretched and inadequately equipped compared to the capabilities of criminal groups.
The analyst further criticised policies he believes reward criminal behaviour, particularly negotiations and amnesty programmes extended to armed groups.
READ ALSO:Â Fuel Subsidy Removal Protects Corruption, Mahdi Shehu Alleges
He maintained that such approaches embolden perpetrators rather than deter them.
He also called for an end to what he described as the legitimisation of criminal elements through traditional titles, public recognition, and political appointments.
According to him, meaningful progress can only be achieved when criminality is confronted without compromise.
Beyond security operations, Shehu pointed to deeper systemic issues, including electoral malpractice and institutional weaknesses, as underlying drivers of the crisis.
He stressed the need for credible elections, judicial integrity, and equal enforcement of the law.
He urged authorities to prioritise justice, fairness, and accountability, warning against selective prosecution.
He also called on citizens to play a more active role in governance, noting that public engagement is essential to national reform.
Shehu concluded that sustainable progress depends on a democratic system that functions on transparency, equity, and the rule of law, cautioning that anything short of these principles would fail to address Nigeria’s security challenges.