By Sumaila Ogbaje
The Convener of Safe and Secured Nigeria Group, Musa Mohammed, has condemned the glorification, financing and harbouring of terrorists, bandits and other violent criminal groups.
Mohammed, in a statement on Thursday, said the group made the position known at a Peace and Development Rally organised by the group in Orozo, Federal Capital Territory.
He said Nigerians could not preach peace while celebrating or supporting individuals and groups responsible for terrorising innocent citizens.
“We cannot preach peace while celebrating violence or supporting those who terrorise innocent people.
“Nigerians must reject the glorification and financing of criminal activities,” he said.
Mohammed urged residents to promptly report suspicious movements and activities to security agencies rather than confronting armed groups themselves.
“Security begins with the community. Citizens are often the first to notice suspicious activities and should report them promptly to the appropriate authorities,” he said.
He also cautioned residents against taking the law into their own hands, urging them to cooperate with the military, police, civil defence and other security agencies.
Mohammed commended the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, and members of the Armed Forces of Nigeria for their sacrifices in protecting the country.
“We appreciate the sacrifices of our Armed Forces. The men and women of the military continue to serve the country under difficult circumstances.
“Their dedication to the defence of Nigeria deserves the support and encouragement of all Nigerians,” he said.
He called for stronger measures to protect youths from recruitment into criminal and violent groups, stressing that they could play a major role in building peaceful communities.
“Our young people are an important part of the solution. We must protect them from criminal recruitment and create opportunities for them to contribute positively to society,” Mohammed said.
He urged traditional rulers, religious leaders, women and youth leaders to identify emerging tensions early and promote dialogue before conflicts escalated.
“Peacebuilding must start before a crisis becomes a crisis. Community leaders have a major role in preventing violence,” he said.
Mohammed said peace and security were essential for development, urging Nigerians to remain united and work with security agencies to build safer communities.
He said the rally formed part of the group’s wider peace campaign, with similar activities held in Lagos, Shagamu, Yenagoa, Port Harcourt, Kaduna, Keffi, Agbor and several locations in the FCT. (NAN)
Edited by Yakubu Uba
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