“Security Is Everybody’s Business” – Retired DIG Gumel Urges Citizens to Join Fight Against Insecurity

A retired Deputy Inspector-General of Police and Secretary of Project 774 Network for Asiwaju, Muhammad Hussaini Gumel, has called on Nigerians to take greater responsibility in tackling insecurity, describing security as a collective duty that should not be politicised.

Speaking in an interview with Radio Nigeria in Abuja, the security expert said insecurity at the grassroots requires community-driven solutions, stressing that criminal activities such as banditry and kidnapping are largely concentrated in local government areas.

DIG Gumel said the Federal Government, under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has demonstrated commitment to addressing insecurity through reforms, including local government financial autonomy, which he noted should enable councils to play a more active role in safeguarding their communities.

According to him, traditional rulers, religious leaders, community volunteers and residents possess vital knowledge of their environments and should work closely with security agencies to identify and isolate criminal elements.

The retired police officer commended the efforts and sacrifices of the military, police and other security agencies in the fight against terrorism, banditry and kidnapping, urging Nigerians to support security personnel instead of undermining their efforts.

On the proposed establishment of state police, DIG Gumel expressed strong support, saying decentralised policing would strengthen community security and improve intelligence gathering. He acknowledged concerns over possible abuse but maintained that any challenges could be addressed through constitutional amendments as implementation progresses.

He said Project 774 Network for Asiwaju is organising a national sensitisation programme to mobilise citizens towards active participation in promoting security across the country.

The programme, scheduled for 27th July 2026 at the Ladi Kwali Hall, Abuja Continental Hotel, has the theme: “Our Security, Our Duty: Citizens Standing with Our Troops to End Terrorism, Banditry and Kidnapping.”

DIG Gumel said the event is expected to attract prominent traditional rulers, religious leaders, government officials and other stakeholders to deliberate on practical ways of strengthening community participation in national security.

He said the conference would conclude with a citizens’ declaration of commitment to support security agencies and work collectively towards ending insecurity in Nigeria.