Insecurity: ‘Enemies Within Govt, Elite Ranks’ — Rufai Oseni

Arise News anchor, Rufai Oseni, has alleged that Nigeria’s persistent insecurity may be sustained by complicity within government and elite circles, arguing that the perpetrators are not necessarily distant from the country’s political and social establishment.

Oseni made the remarks while discussing the worsening security situation in the country and the challenges confronting efforts to tackle banditry and other forms of violent crime.

He cited the recent attack in Woro, Kwara State, where bandits reportedly killed innocent residents despite earlier warnings to security authorities about a potential threat.

The broadcaster also referred to instances in which state governments had allegedly engaged in public interactions or photo opportunities with individuals identified as bandits.

According to Oseni, such developments raise questions about the relationship between those perpetrating insecurity and influential figures within society.

“Are the people perpetrating this insecurity far from us in society? No, they are not far from us,” he said.

Oseni alleged that individuals linked to insecurity have been identified within and around government circles but continue to move freely.

“There have been many people that are in and around the government being linked to this level of insecurity, and they are walking free today, and they are part of the elite class,” he stated.

His comments come amid continuing concerns over banditry, terrorism, kidnapping and other security challenges affecting communities across Nigeria.

Oseni argued that addressing insecurity would require more than deploying security personnel or increasing government spending, stressing the need to examine possible networks of influence and complicity within the country’s political and elite structures.

The broadcaster’s allegations have further fueled calls for greater accountability, intelligence gathering and thorough investigations into individuals suspected of facilitating or benefiting from criminal activities.

His remarks also highlight the growing public debate over whether Nigeria’s security challenges are solely the result of weak institutions and inadequate resources or are compounded by alleged internal collaboration and protection of criminal actors.

The allegations remain claims and would require appropriate investigations and evidence to establish the culpability of any individuals accused of involvement.