Address insecurity, unemployment to save Nigeria from collapsing, Oyo NIPR charges FG

From Ogundele Olanrewaju

The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Oyo State chapter, on Thursday, expressed its dismay at the grinding security challenges plaguing the country, urged the Federal Government to tackle the monster headlong.

At its April meeting, presided over by Mr. Goke Adelakun, Oyo State NIPR lamented the spate of insecurity across the country , especially the repeated attacks in Kaduna State.

Oyo State NIPR, in a communique issued at the end of its monthly meeting held at Premier Hotel, Mokola, Ibadan , said it is appalling that insecurity is threatening Kaduna State,” which it described as the epicentre of military formations and institutions.

In the communique signed by Alhaji Adewole Soladoye, Mr. Paul Akano and Comrade Rotimi Agboluaje respectively, the body stated that Kaduna State is supposed to be a fortress and sanctuary for the nation but unfortunately the state has become the target of terrorists and bandits.

Against this backdrop, Oyo State NIPR called on the Federal Government to garner the political will to address the monster without delay, emphasising that intelligence gathering is key in dealing with the quagmire.

The institute also decried ritual killings, which it said have become ubiquitous in every part of the country, calling on the Federal Government to link up with traditional leaders, local organisations and non-formal security organisations as well as make use of local intelligence.

It also said governments at all levels must take steps to tackle the increasing rate of unemployment, youth restiveness and end the protracted ASUU strike.

“Crises and anarchy in the country are rooted in youth unemployment. Many youths are unemployed and underemployed, and idleness among the youths is fuelling crises and insecurity in the country.

“Connecting with idleness and youth restiveness in the country are the protracted strike by university lecturers. The unending labour crisis which is dealing a deadly blow on the nation’s ivory towers has made the students idle and restive. It is also compounding insecurity in the country,” the communique read.

The institute further decried the high rate of power outage in the country, saying the development has crippled many companies , small and large scale, with many relocating to adjoining countries.

It, therefore, urged the government to overhaul the power sector with a view to preventing the total collapse of the real sector and other strategic industries.