Ribadu Warns Politicians, Security Agencies Against Any Coup Plot

Nigeria’s national security adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, has cautioned that since Nigeria is still the only democracy in the Sahel, it must fiercely defend its democratic system.

Ribadu issued the warning on Thursday during a workshop in Abuja on averting violence and strife in northern Nigeria. The Kukah Center, the National Peace Committee, and the Office of the National Security Adviser coordinated the event.

In light of military takeovers in nations like Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger, and Chad, Ribadu pointed out that Nigeria is the region’s last shining example of constitutional rule.

“This phase will pass, but we are going through painful times,” he stated. Our region’s nations—from the Sahel to East Africa and South Asia—face comparable or even longer-lasting difficulties. In the entire Sahel, Nigeria is still the sole democracy in operation, and we must preserve this accomplishment.

Ribadu promised that individuals endangering the peace and unity of the country will face severe consequences from the Nigerian government.

“Let me be clear: the Nigerian state remains fully committed to law, order, and the protection of citizens,” he said.

“In accordance with our obligations to protect human rights and safeguard lives, any individual or group that exploits communities, spreads terror, or attempts to undermine national unity will face coordinated and decisive action.”

Nigeria had obtained 775 convictions related to terrorism, according to the NSA, highlighting advancements in counterterrorism operations through cooperation between security agencies, communities, and the judiciary.

Ribadu emphasized that the majority of security issues start locally and advocated for increased participation in peacebuilding from subnational governments, religious leaders, communities, and traditional rulers.

“There is much less need for the use of armed forces when communities are empowered to settle their own conflicts and prevent violence,” he stated.

In order to restore confidence and strengthen resilience throughout northern Nigeria, he called for the translation of discussions into action.

False Security Is Offered by Arms: Kukah
Prior to this, Bishop Matthew Kukah, Convener of the National Peace Committee, emphasized that every Nigerian was either directly or indirectly impacted by insecurity.

He said that arming communities would merely provide a “false sense of security,” warning against the notion that doing so would address the issue.

According to Kukah, “there is a growing belief that communities can arm themselves to defend themselves.” However, using weapons won’t solve our issues. They provide a deceptive feeling of safety. And where are those weapons going to end up when peace returns?

Kukah continued, citing scripture, saying, “Jesus asked Peter to put back his sword; this was not an accident.” The truth never changes, even though circumstances might.

He urged women and young people to be involved in crafting peace initiatives and called on civil society to accept its purpose.