When We Are Done Facing The Government: An Appraisal Of The Role Of Citizens In Nigerian Insecurity

In discussions about insecurity in Nigeria, the government is often the first and only target of criticism. From terrorism and banditry to kidnapping, armed robbery and communal clashes, citizens are quick to point accusing fingers at leadership failures, weak institutions and poor governance. While the government undeniably carries the primary responsibility for protecting lives and property, an honest appraisal of insecurity in Nigeria must also interrogate the role of citizens themselves. When we are done facing the government, perhaps it is time to face ourselves.

Nigeria’s insecurity problem did not emerge in isolation from society. Criminality thrives within communities, and in many cases, ordinary citizens consciously or unconsciously enable it. Kidnappers do not operate in the forest without informants in towns. Terrorists do not move weapons around without collaborators. Cybercriminals do not flourish without social admiration for ill-gotten wealth. Across the country, there are communities that shield criminals because of ethnic, religious or financial interests. This culture of complicity weakens every governmental effort aimed at restoring peace and order.

One major problem is the celebration of suspicious wealth. In many Nigerian communities, people hardly question the source of sudden affluence. Young men with no visible means of livelihood are celebrated once they begin to display wealth. Society applauds expensive cars, lavish parties and flamboyant lifeclasss without demanding accountability. This societal obsession with wealth over integrity has created an environment where crime appears rewarding. When citizens glorify material success regardless of its source, insecurity becomes indirectly legitimised.

Another issue is the widespread failure to provide useful information to security agencies. Many Nigerians possess vital intelligence about criminal activities but refuse to report because of fear, distrust or ethnic loyalty. Some communities even resist security operations against criminals who share their language, religion or tribe. This selective morality undermines national security. Criminality should never be defended on the basis of identity. A criminal remains a criminal regardless of ethnic or religious affiliation.

Furthermore, citizens contribute to insecurity through the spread of fake news and inflammatory content, especially on social media. False reports, manipulated videos and provocative statements often heighten tensions in an already fragile society. In a country as diverse as Nigeria, reckless communication can ignite violence within hours. Unfortunately, many people circulate unverified information simply because it aligns with their sentiments or prejudices. Insecurity is not only sustained by weapons; it is also fuelled by irresponsible words.

The erosion of communal values has also played a significant role. In the past, communities were more united in protecting shared values and disciplining deviant behaviour. Today, many neighbourhoods are characterised by indifference. People hardly know their neighbours, and suspicious activities are ignored until tragedy occurs. The spirit of collective responsibility has weakened. Yet security is not solely the duty of armed forces; it also depends on vigilant and responsible communities.

Youth involvement in crime is another uncomfortable reality. While unemployment, poverty and bad governance contribute significantly to criminal behaviour, they do not completely excuse it. Many Nigerians face hardship without resorting to violence or criminality. Some young people have unfortunately embraced kidnapping, internet fraud, cultism and drug trafficking as alternatives to hard work. Society must stop romanticising criminal behaviour under the guise of survival.

Religious and traditional institutions also have responsibilities in addressing insecurity. Religious leaders, community heads and opinion moulders wield enormous influence over citizens. Unfortunately, some have remained silent in the face of obvious wrongdoing, while others subtly encourage division and intolerance. Moral leadership is essential in rebuilding a culture of honesty, peace and accountability.

None of these arguments absolves the government of responsibility. The state must still provide effective policing, intelligence gathering, employment opportunities and justice. However, national security cannot be achieved by government alone. A society that rewards corruption, shields criminals, spreads hatred and neglects communal responsibility cannot expect lasting peace.

Nigeria’s insecurity crisis therefore demands collective introspection. Citizens must become active stakeholders in nation-building rather than passive critics of leadership. Patriotism is not merely expressed through complaints against the government; it is also demonstrated through personal integrity, lawful conduct, responsible communication and cooperation with security agencies.

When we are done facing the government, we must face ourselves. The fight against insecurity is not only a battle for the state; it is a moral responsibility for every citizen. A safer Nigeria will emerge not merely from better leadership, but also from better citizenship.

(c) 2026 Ganiu Bamgbose writes from Lagos.