Nigerian academic and media practitioner, Dr. Akinyemi Rasaq Akanmu Bolaji, has formally urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to seek military assistance from the United States to address the worsening security challenges confronting Nigeria.
In an open letter to the President, Dr. Rasaq characterized the country’s security situation as “severe,” highlighting that terrorism, banditry, and insurgency have resulted in thousands of deaths and displaced millions, especially in the North-West, North-East, and Middle Belt regions. He identified Boko Haram, the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), and other armed groups as significant threats to national stability.
Dr. Rasaq recommended that the federal government request US support in critical areas, including intelligence sharing, military training, provision of equipment, aerial operations, and humanitarian aid for communities affected by insecurity. He emphasized that this assistance should complement ongoing regional cooperation with West African partners.
He also stressed the importance of development programs aimed at addressing the socio-economic factors underlying insecurity, describing such initiatives as vital to achieving sustainable peace in the impacted regions.
In a separate communication, Dr. Rasaq criticized Islamic cleric Sheikh Ahmad Gumi for his recent appeal advocating for the release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), conditional on Kanu showing remorse. He described the cleric’s priorities as “misplaced,” questioning the focus on Kanu’s release amid pressing national security threats.
Dr. Bolaji pointed out what he sees as an inconsistency in Gumi’s stance, noting that while the cleric has engaged in dialogue with armed criminals, he has remained largely silent regarding Boko Haram attacks. He questioned, “Is this the leadership Nigeria requires?” calling instead for a discourse centered on national security.
The academic further called on Nigerian authorities to prioritize citizen safety and support security personnel risking their lives daily. He warned that calls for Kanu’s release risk emboldening separatist movements and undermining national unity.
Finally, he urged President Tinubu to reject narratives that compromise Nigeria’s sovereignty and stressed that the rule of law must prevail without interference from influential individuals.
