A Nation of Mourners: The Unending Tragedy of Insecurity in Nigeria
It happened 19 years ago, but the question posed by Kayode Komolafe in his column still echoes through the corridors of Nigerian society. His article, titled “Nigeria: A Nation of Mourners?” was a response to a series of aviation disasters that plagued the country during the presidency of Olusegun Obasanjo. These tragedies highlighted a deeper issue — a nation seemingly powerless in the face of recurring crises.
The first incident occurred on May 4, 2002, when EAS Airlines Flight 4226 crashed near Gwammaja Quarters in Kano, killing 66 passengers and seven crew members, along with 30 people on the ground. This was followed by the Sosoliso Airlines crash on December 10, 2005, which claimed 110 lives, leaving only two survivors. Then came the ADC Airlines Boeing 737-2B7 crash at Nnamdi Azikiwe Airport in Abuja on October 29, 2006, resulting in 96 deaths out of 105 on board. Each of these incidents triggered a wave of national mourning, raising questions about the state of Nigeria’s aviation sector.
Komolafe’s incisive critique questioned whether Nigeria had resigned itself to being a “nation of mourners.” He argued that instead of merely grieving, the country needed proactive policies to address the systemic failures in its aviation industry. His words were prophetic, as the same pattern of mourning has continued, albeit now for different reasons.
Insecurity: A New Wave of Mourning
Today, the nation is mourning not due to plane crashes, but due to rising insecurity. The loss of life from armed attacks, kidnappings, and banditry has far surpassed the toll of past aviation disasters. Recently, Arise TV journalist Somtochukwu Maduagwu died after allegedly jumping from a building while fleeing armed robbers in Katampe, Abuja. Her death sparked a nationwide outpouring of grief, with the President, federal officials, and colleagues all expressing sorrow.
This tragedy is not an isolated incident. Insecurity has become a daily reality in many parts of Nigeria. Amnesty International reported that 10,217 people were killed in two years under the current administration alone. The northern regions have been particularly affected, with villages attacked and communities displaced. Recent incidents, such as the killing of an Imam and four others at a mosque in Zamfara State, highlight the growing threat.
Each time a deadly event occurs, the nation mourns. As Kolawole once wrote, “Tears and sorrow define the national mood. Then we wait for another round of mourning.” But this cycle of grief is not sustainable. It reflects a lack of accountability and effective governance.
Constitutional Obligations and Government Failures
The Nigerian Constitution, specifically Chapter 2, Section 14 (b), mandates the government to ensure the security and welfare of its citizens. Furthermore, Section 33 (1) guarantees the right to life. Yet, these constitutional obligations are often ignored or undermined. The government is responsible for protecting its citizens, yet it continues to fail in this critical duty.
The security architecture in Nigeria is capable of safeguarding lives if properly implemented. However, the problem lies in the lack of accountability. Commanders at all levels are not held responsible for the failures under their watch. The President, as Commander-in-Chief, appoints key security figures, but these appointments often reflect political interests rather than competence.
Despite significant funding allocated for defense and security over the past 15 years, the results have been disappointing. Much of the money has been misused or diverted to other purposes, including elections. Nigeria remains among the top 20 countries with the highest rates of violent crime, alongside nations like Afghanistan and Venezuela. This is unacceptable for a country with the potential to be a leader in security and stability.
A Call for Proactive Measures
To address this crisis, the government must take immediate and decisive action. Proactive measures — both kinetic and non-kinetic — are necessary to tackle the root causes of insecurity. Security personnel must be held accountable for their actions, and funds allocated for defense and security should be used judiciously.
Moreover, the government must stop ignoring the underlying issues that fuel insecurity. Efforts should be made to create opportunities for young people through education, job creation, and economic revitalization. Only then can Nigeria move beyond being a “nation of mourners” and build a safer, more prosperous future.
