The umbrella body of Ijaw youths, the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide, has expressed deep concern over the rising cases of terrorists and bandits incursions into the Niger Delta and other parts of the country.

The IYC, therefore, called for urgent reforms in security measures and emphasised the necessity of local governance and accountability in addressing the pressing security challenges within Nigeria.

The group in a statement on Monday by its national spokesman, Amb. Binebai Yerin Princewill, expressed solidarity with Nigerians and the people of the Niger Delta facing insecurity and terror from terrorists, bandits and jihadists.

Princewill highlighted a significant rise in violence, kidnappings, and killings, resulting in humanitarian crises, displacement of families, and disruption of economic activities.

He condemned the relevant authorities’ lack of decisive action, emphasizing that reliance on rhetoric instead of action had increased vulnerability to attacks.

The spokesman insisted that the authorities must take concrete steps to protect lives and property, stating that many Nigerians are exhausted by the current state of insecurity.

Princewill demanded the urgent implementation of State Police as a vital solution to the security issues, noting that the initiative would allow for community-based security measures and enable better understanding of local threats.

The IYC spokesman stated, “We call upon all state governors in Nigeria, particularly those from the Niger Delta region, to rise to the challenge of protecting their people.

“As leaders entrusted with the responsibility of governing their states, they must be more proactive in ensuring the security and well-being of their citizens.

“The IYC Worldwide expects more from our leaders, and it is time they prioritized the security and welfare of our people over political considerations.

“The lack of action from some of our leaders has been quite telling. We urge them to put the interests of their people above personal interests and take bold steps to address the security challenges facing our communities. Our people are dying, and it is time for our leaders to act.

“We demand that the federal government and state governments take concrete steps to address the root causes of insecurity, including poverty, unemployment, and lack of access to social amenities, which have contributed to the rise of violent groups and criminal activities. Our people deserve to live in peace and prosperity, and it is the responsibility of our leaders to ensure that this is achieved.”

He averred that the group would not be silenced or intimidated by those who are more interested in maintaining the status quo than in protecting the people.

“We will continue to advocate for the rights and interests of our people, and we will take all necessary steps to ensure that our voices are heard,” Princewill added. (The Nation, but headline rejigged)

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