HeadlineNews.News Special Report
April 14, 2025 | Nigeria
—
COMMUNITY VIGILANCE: CITIZENS URGED TO TAKE OWNERSHIP OF LOCAL SECURITY AS THREATS RISE
In light of the growing threat of insecurity across several Nigerian states, a coalition of concerned community leaders and stakeholders has issued a public advisory urging landlords, landladies, and residents to take proactive steps toward securing their neighborhoods. The message, addressed to communities especially within Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ondo, and Ekiti states, highlights the vulnerability posed by the growing number of roadside dwellers, abandoned structures, and poor street-level security coordination.
With over 15 million commercial riders—Okada and Keke Maruwa operators—many of whom live in makeshift shelters or uncompleted buildings, the advisory warns that unchecked access to neighborhoods increases the risk of armed attacks, kidnappings, and burglaries.
CALL TO ACTION FOR ALL STAKEHOLDERS
The directive emphasizes that community security can no longer be left solely in the hands of government and security agencies. It calls for a grassroots response involving residents, traditional rulers, youth associations, and Community Development Associations (CDAs). Key proposals include:
Formal Registration of Security Guards: All community security personnel must be vetted and registered with the CDA and approved by the local Divisional Police Officer (DPO).
Accountability through Banking: Salaries for security guards should be paid through traceable bank accounts rather than cash to aid identification and reduce risks of employing anonymous individuals.
Verification and Residency Tracking: Guards must have traceable places of residence known to community leaders to ensure transparency and accountability.
Proactive Community Sanitation and Surveillance: Residents are urged to regularly clear overgrown bushes and vacate uncompleted buildings that may serve as hideouts for criminals.
Digitized Communication Platforms: Every street is encouraged to establish WhatsApp groups for residents, youth associations, and landlords to facilitate real-time updates and alerts.
Motorcycle and Tricycle Regulation: CDAs are tasked with developing a restriction policy for Okada and Keke operations within residential areas.
Tenant Engagement and Awareness: Landlords are encouraged to maintain cordial relationships with tenants and promote vigilance.
Zero Tolerance for Loitering and Illegal Gatherings: Communities must report suspicious gatherings and restrict unnecessary youth movements within residential areas.
“TRUST NO ONE. BE VIGILANT.”
The advisory warns that most street-level crimes are often aided by insiders. Residents are cautioned to be discreet with personal information, avoid extravagant lifestyles, and limit cash handling. “Flamboyance attracts unwanted attention,” it notes, urging citizens to spend wisely and secure their homes and families.
POLICE CAN’T DO IT ALONE
Security experts have repeatedly stressed that community policing is the bedrock of national security. The burden of vigilance must be shared. While law enforcement agencies remain central to national security efforts, the need for local engagement, intelligence sharing, and grassroots cooperation is now more crucial than ever.
ROLE OF TRADITIONAL RULERS
Baales and Obas are called upon to take an active role in mobilizing community efforts and providing cultural authority in the enforcement of local security arrangements.
—
This report reflects growing public sentiment that Nigeria’s fight against insecurity requires an all-hands-on-deck approach. Every resident must become a stakeholder in safeguarding their streets, homes, and families.
May God Almighty continue to be our Guardian and Protector.
For feedback and reports on your community’s security initiatives, contact HeadlineNews.News at editor.headlinenews@gmail.com
Dr. Amiida
Headlinenews.news
