From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) has sharply criticised President Bola Tinubu’s administration for its perceived lack of empathy and decisive leadership amid Nigeria’s escalating security crisis.
CISLAC condemned the president’s silence and absence at a time when Nigerians urgently need direction and healing, stressing that leadership demands presence and responsiveness, particularly during turmoil.
CISLAC’s Executive Director, Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, issued a statement addressing recent killings in Benue, Plateau, Zamfara, Katsina, Niger, and Kwara states. He said, “At a time when the nation is crying out for healing and direction, the president’s silence and physical absence are both unacceptable and morally troubling. Leadership is not just about holding office; it is about being present in times of peace and, more importantly, in times of crisis.”
He added: “Easter is meant to be a time of deep reflection, not just for individuals but for leaders as well. Yet, for millions of Nigerians, it has become a painful reminder of lives cut short, families shattered, and a country steadily descending into insecurity, economic hardship, and official indifference.”
CISLAC highlighted the ongoing violence, noting attacks in Benue and Plateau that claimed over 50 lives, alongside killings in other states. The organisation stated: “These are not isolated incidents; they are symptoms of a much deeper crisis: a breakdown in governance and a failure of the state to protect its people.”
It expressed concern over the government’s failure to prioritise security despite significant financial allocations, saying, “The more financial resources are pumped into the system, the more insecurity seems to escalate, raising serious concerns about the strategic will to confront and end these atrocities. Until there is clear accountability and effective deployment of resources, insecurity will continue to thrive.”
The group also criticised politicians’ focus on the 2027 elections, stating, “The race for future power is overtaking the urgent need to secure lives, manage our diversity, stabilise the economy, and foster peace.
This obsession with political positioning, at a time of national emergency, is reckless and deeply irresponsible.” CISLAC urged an end to the politicisation of violence and misuse of security forces for political gain, adding: “Nigerians are not statistics or stepping stones to power. They are citizens—people with dignity, rights, and lives that matter.”
With over 33 million Nigerians projected to face acute food shortages in 2025, CISLAC warned of escalating food insecurity and violence. It declared, “We cannot continue on this dark and dangerous path.
The blood of innocent citizens must no longer be the price we pay for government failure. Enough is enough. Nigeria deserves better.” Rafsanjani concluded, “The journey to national renewal demands truth, courage, and action—and CISLAC will not relent. Enough is enough.”