Brig. Gen. Tsiga’s Abduction and Nigeria’s Escalating Security Crisis

A Call for Urgent Government Action

The recent release of Brig. Gen. Maharazu Tsiga, former Director General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), after 56 days in captivity, highlights Nigeria’s worsening security situation. This incident should serve as a wake-up call for President Bola Tinubu’s administration to reassess its approach to national security.

The Alarming State of Insecurity

Nigeria’s security apparatus continues to deteriorate, leaving citizens in perpetual fear. The abduction of a high-ranking military officer like Tsiga from his hometown in Katsina State on February 5, 2025, along with nine others (with one fatality), demonstrates the audacity of criminal elements operating across the country.

The Ransom Controversy

While reports suggest Tsiga’s release followed payment of a N180 million ransom through a community-driven WhatsApp initiative, the Defence Headquarters maintains no ransom was paid. This contradiction reflects Nigeria’s ongoing struggle with kidnappings and the government’s reluctance to acknowledge ransom payments.

The case raises serious questions about security operations:

• How was Tsiga actually rescued?
• Were any arrests made?
• Who sponsors these kidnapping networks?

The Human Cost of Kidnappings

The tragic case of APC leader Rauf Adeniji, who died in captivity, and the ordeal of his cousin Akinropo Adesiyan (chained for 32 days and forced to witness his wife’s murder), underscore the brutal reality facing ordinary Nigerians.

A Call to Action

President Tinubu must prioritize:

1. Comprehensive security sector reform
2. Proper motivation for security personnel
3. Depoliticization of security operations
4. Focus on FCT security under Minister Wike

The fundamental duty of government remains protecting lives and property – a responsibility that currently falls short.

The Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Recall Controversy

In a related development, the attempted recall of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (Kogi Central) raises concerns about political interference. The popular senator, who defeated political heavyweights in their stronghold, faces what many view as politically motivated attempts to remove her from office.

A Test for Democratic Institutions

This situation puts Nigeria’s democratic institutions – the Senate, INEC, and Judiciary – on trial. The senator’s supporters argue she represents:

• Effective representation on Ajaokuta steel issues
• Grassroots empowerment
• Women’s political participation

The case highlights ongoing challenges in Nigeria’s political landscape, particularly regarding gender equality and fair political competition.

Credit: Original reporting by Independent Nigeria