A legal practitioner, Maxwell Opara, has called for the resignation of the National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, over his recent comment that Nigeria’s security situation is not too bad.
Opara, who spoke while featuring on Arise TV’s News Day programme on Wednesday, described the NSA’s assessment as “unconscionable” and starkly at odds with the harsh reality on the ground.
According to Opara, the NSA’s comment is particularly egregious given the recent spate of violent attacks and killings in the country.
“With over 150 people killed in the past two weeks alone, it’s unconscionable to claim the country is doing well on security,” he said.
Opara’s call for the NSA’s resignation is based on the notion that the NSA’s assessment of the security situation does not reflect the reality on the ground.
“Their assessment of the security situation is starkly at odds with the harsh reality on the ground,” he said.
The legal practitioner also urged the Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, to step down, citing the same reasons.
“I urge the NSA and Minister of Defence to step down,” he said.
NSA Should Resign Over Poor Security Judgement – Opara
— ARISE NEWS (@ARISEtv) April 23, 2025
The NSA's recent comment that Nigeria's security situation is not too bad should have led to his resignation if Nigeria were a functioning democracy. With over 150 people killed in the past two weeks alone, it's… pic.twitter.com/zBjRqvpHkB
Opara’s comments come against the backdrop of growing concerns about the country’s security situation. In recent weeks, there have been several reports of violent attacks, kidnappings, and killings in various parts of the country.
The NSA’s comment that Nigeria’s security situation is not too bad has been met with widespread criticism. Many Nigerians have expressed frustration and disappointment at the apparent disconnect between the Government’s assessment of the situation and the reality on the ground.
Opara’s call for the NSA’s resignation is likely to add to the growing chorus of criticism against the Government’s handling of the security situation.
As the country continues to grapple with the challenges of insecurity, Opara’s comments highlight the need for a more nuanced and realistic assessment of the situation and more effective measures to address the root causes of the problem.