Former Presidential Candidate Blames Officials for Nigeria’s Worsening Insecurity

By Otobong Gabriel, Abuja

Former presidential candidate Gbenga Hashim has accused the Nigerian government and certain security officials of complicity in the country’s escalating insecurity, warning that terrorism and mass kidnappings cannot be effectively tackled amid official denial, suppression of information, and intimidation of affected communities.

Hashim spoke in reaction to the recent kidnapping of over 170 people in Kajuru Local Government Area, Kaduna State—an incident initially denied by security authorities before later being acknowledged.

He described the denial as part of a troubling pattern in Nigeria’s security management, where suppressing facts often takes precedence over decisive action. “No matter the level of international support against terrorism, Nigeria will not achieve results as long as local authorities are compromised and complicit,” Hashim said.

The former candidate labelled the initial handling of the Kajuru incident a “calculated attempt to erase a crime,” arguing that truth is increasingly treated as a liability rather than the foundation for effective security responses. 

He also raised concerns over alleged intimidation of victim communities, noting that affected populations are often pressured into silence instead of being protected.

Hashim linked this trend to heightened international scrutiny following U.S. Christmas Day airstrikes on terrorist locations in northern Nigeria. 

He claimed that the period after the strikes saw further attacks that were reportedly concealed by officials, citing reports from Kebbi State where at least nine people were allegedly killed.

 “Credible community leaders confirmed that information about the killings was officially suppressed, with warnings issued against speaking out,” he said.

He also criticised the federal government’s handling of the U.S. strikes, accusing the APC-led administration of failing to seize the opportunity to dismantle terrorist networks. 

According to Hashim, surviving insurgents were allowed to escape across the Niger border, reflecting a missed strategic opportunity.

“Nigeria’s insecurity is no longer just about capacity, funding, or intelligence. It is increasingly about intent and accountability,” Hashim stated. 

He concluded by warning that unless denial, suppression of information, and alleged complicity are addressed, the country’s security crisis will persist, regardless of foreign support or military intervention.