The Muslim Media Watch Group of Nigeria (MMWG) has called upon President Bola Tinubu to take urgent measures to increase the numerical strength of the Police Force and other security agencies.

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The MMWG’s plea comes after the release of 137 students from the Kuriga Government Secondary School in Chikum Local Government of Kaduna State, underscoring the persistent threats posed by criminal elements across the country.

In a joint statement signed by its national coordinator, Alhaji Ibrahim Abdullahi, and national secretary, Nasir Balogun, the group highlighted the pressing need for increased recruitment and training of police officers and other security personnel. They emphasized that the current number of security personnel is inadequate relative to the nation’s population, raising concerns about the effectiveness of law enforcement efforts.

Citing improper postings as a contributing factor to Nigeria’s security challenges, the MMWG criticized the deployment of security personnel to political office-holders, which they argued diverts essential services from areas of security concern. They cautioned that such misallocation of resources could exacerbate the risk of security breaches.

In response to the escalating kidnapping incidents, the MMWG proposed the deployment of police and National Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) personnel to all schools nationwide, regardless of whether they operate boarding facilities. They asserted that both the Nigeria Police and NSCDC leadership bear responsibility for safeguarding citizens and their property, underscoring the need for heightened vigilance and proactive security measures.

The group commended Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State for his leadership in facilitating the release of 137 out of 287 kidnapped students, applauding the collaborative efforts of security forces in addressing the crisis. However, they stressed that sustained action and comprehensive security reforms are imperative to mitigate the pervasive threat of kidnapping and ensure the safety of all Nigerians.