A Senior Fellow at the Centre for Democracy and Development, Prof Jibrin Ibrahim, has criticized President Bola Tinubu’s handling of insecurity in Nigeria, stating that his administration is performing worse than that of former President Goodluck Jonathan. In a recent interview on Arise Television, Prof Ibrahim noted that President Tinubu had previously criticized Jonathan for his response to schoolchildren abductions in 2014, but has failed to improve the situation since taking office.

According to Prof Ibrahim, many Nigerians had hoped that the inauguration of late President Muhammadu Buhari, a former top Army General, would mark a turning point in the fight against insecurity. However, Buhari’s administration proved incapable of ending the violence, and the problem has continued to worsen under President Tinubu. The professor emphasized that the Nigerian state has consistently failed to fulfill its constitutional responsibility to provide security and welfare for its citizens, with insecurity increasing steadily since 2009.

Prof Ibrahim attributed the growing insecurity to the proliferation of arms among civilians, who use them to attack communities, road users, and even security personnel with impunity. He expressed concern that the Nigerian government has yet to demonstrate the will, determination, and expertise needed to address the crisis effectively. Despite periodic moments of hope, including the expectation that President Buhari’s military background would enable him to tackle the issue, the problem persists.

The ongoing insecurity has had a profound impact on Nigerians, with the past year being particularly challenging. Prof Ibrahim’s comments highlight the need for the Nigerian government to reassess its approach to security and develop a more effective strategy to protect its citizens. As the situation continues to deteriorate, it remains to be seen whether the current administration will be able to turn the tide and ensure the safety and well-being of Nigerians. The international community is watching the developments in Nigeria with concern, and a resolution to the crisis is eagerly awaited.