By Bola Babarinde, South Africa
Nigeria stands at a dangerous crossroads. In recent weeks, mass kidnappings have surged once again. While headlines continue to speak of bandit attacks and security lapses, a deeper problem is becoming impossible to ignore. Beneath the confusion lies a disturbing pattern of negligence, internal sabotage and a worrying silence from those who should speak. If the country refuses to confront these ugly realities, we risk becoming our own worst enemies, undermining our nation from within and endangering our future.
The attack on St. Mary’s Catholic School in Papiri, Niger State, where more than 300 children and their teachers were abducted, shocked the nation. Only a small group managed to escape days later, while hundreds remain unaccounted for. Soon after, the raid on Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School in Maga, Kebbi State, resulted in the abduction of 25 schoolgirls and the killing of a vice-principal who bravely attempted to protect them. These tragedies are not isolated events. Human rights groups and security experts have observed a clear pattern that points to systemic failures and ignored intelligence warnings. Nigeria’s most vulnerable continue to suffer while those responsible for protection appear unable, or unwilling, to act decisively.
The situation becomes even more alarming when allegations of complicity emerge from those in authority. In the Kebbi attack, the state governor disclosed that security operatives had received intelligence about the impending threat. The school was supposed to be guarded around the clock, yet the soldiers assigned to protect it reportedly withdrew just 30 minutes before the attack. Analysts who reviewed this timeline described the withdrawal as a severe breach of duty. Some have gone further to warn that the incident resembles internal sabotage, suggesting that certain individuals within the security structure may be benefitting from the chaos. If these accusations are true, then this is not only negligence but a betrayal of the citizens the security forces are meant to protect.
As a person who believes in truth, service to humanity and responsible leadership, I find the silence surrounding these failures deeply troubling. Too many party members and political actors have become reluctant to challenge wrongdoing or speak honestly to those in leadership. Instead, we create the illusion that all is well, even when the nation bleeds. This behaviour is dangerous. When we fear to speak, we become silent accomplices. When we deceive our leaders intentionally or out of fear, we create enemies within who are far more dangerous than any opposition.
We must ask ourselves why we are so afraid to confront the truth. Is it political loyalty, fear of losing favour or the desire to maintain personal comfort? Whatever the reason, this culture of silence is harming the nation. If we continue this way, we risk allowing our leaders to fall into traps laid by hostile forces, while we pretend everything is fine.
Nigeria must face reality. Although the government has taken some steps by declaring a national emergency and deploying more security personnel, these measures alone are not enough. Transparency and accountability must follow. The public deserves to know why security failed, who withdrew protection from vulnerable schools and who benefits from these repeated tragedies. Heads must roll where necessary and investigations must be open and credible. Only through honesty and accountability can the government regain public trust and prove that it does not condone terrorism or the growing business of kidnapping.
I believe in speaking truth to power, even when it is unpopular. Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe has shown over the years that telling the truth can make one unpopular in political circles, yet leadership demands courage, not comfort. Our party was founded on strong ideals: truth, justice, service to mankind and selfless commitment to the people. If we abandon these values now, we betray not only our founding vision but also the millions of Nigerians who deserve safety and hope.
We must rebuke sycophancy, demand responsible governance and ensure that the voices of ordinary Nigerians, those who feel fear every day, are heard. Silence is complicity. Nigeria cannot afford complicity at a time like this.
The nation must rise to face the truth. Only then can we overcome the enemies within and rebuild a future where our children can live and learn without fear.
