Insecurity: Labour urges state governments to act

Nigeria’s labour unions are urging state governments and local authorities to take a more proactive role in addressing the country’s escalating insecurity. The call comes after nationwide protests were held last week in cities like Lagos and Abuja to highlight the growing concerns over kidnappings, banditry, and violent crime. According to Comrade Funmi Sessi, Chairperson of the Nigeria Labour Congress, Lagos Chapter, the freedom of movement has been severely restricted due to fear of attacks and kidnappings.

The labour leaders argue that while security is often seen as a federal issue, states and local governments are better positioned to tackle the problem due to their proximity to communities. They are calling for greater investment in intelligence gathering, community engagement, surveillance, and rapid-response mechanisms. Official data reveals the scale of the challenge, with the National Bureau of Statistics estimating 2.24 million kidnapping incidents nationwide between May 2023 and April 2024. Households paid an estimated N2.23tn in ransom during this period, with about 65% of affected households making payments averaging N2.67m per case.

Research firm SB Morgen reports that kidnappers demanded over N48bn from victims and their families between June 2024 and June 2025, although only about N2.57bn was paid. The North-West region was identified as the most affected by violent kidnappings, while the South-South and South-East experienced targeted abductions linked to financial and religious motives. Labour leaders are seeking accountability from state governments, questioning how special security allocations are being utilized.

The federal government has declared a nationwide security emergency, recruiting additional police officers and expanding military operations against kidnappings and terrorism. However, labour leaders emphasize that federal efforts will be limited without complementary action from states and local councils. They stress that security is a fundamental duty of governance and that ordinary Nigerians will continue to bear the cost of inaction. As the situation continues to deteriorate, labour unions are pushing for greater responsibility from state governments and local authorities to address the worsening insecurity and protect citizens’ lives and property.