By Adeola Badru

The President of Ibadan Mega Voice, Kola Olomide, has called on political leaders to confront the nation’s worsening insecurity with the same seriousness and determination often displayed in the pursuit of political power.

In a statement issued yesterday, Olomide, while congratulating Muslims for witnessing yet another Eid-ul-Adha celebration, described the season as a solemn reminder of obedience, sacrifice, selflessness and total devotion to God.

Ibadan Mega Voice is an association of Ibadan indigenes in the mass communication industry, comprising professionals in radio, television, print journalism, online media, theatre, publishing, music, lecturing, public relations and advertising.

The association is also an affiliate of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), the umbrella body of all Ibadan indigenes across the world.

Olomide urged Nigerians, irrespective of religion or ethnic background, to use the festive period to offer fervent prayers for the peace, progress and stability of the country, especially at a time when insecurity continues to threaten lives and livelihoods in several parts of the nation.

Olomide expressed deep concern over the deteriorating security situation in the country, lamenting the persistent cases of kidnapping, killings, banditry, terrorism and violent attacks that have left many communities living in fear and uncertainty.

He noted that many Nigerians could no longer travel safely on highways, while numerous farmers had abandoned their farmlands due to incessant attacks, warning that the development poses a grave threat to food security and the nation’s economy.

According to him, the growing wave of insecurity has not only inflicted pain, fear and displacement on countless families, but has also eroded public confidence in the ability of authorities to adequately protect lives and property.

Olomide, therefore, called on the Federal Government and security agencies to intensify efforts towards addressing insecurity with greater urgency, sincerity and proactive intelligence gathering.

“Nigerian political leaders must tackle insecurity in the land with the same level of seriousness and determination they deploy during the struggle for power,” he said.

He stressed that Nigerians deserve to live without fear, adding that the protection of lives and property must remain the foremost responsibility of governments at all levels.

Olomide also appealed to political leaders to rise above partisan interests and work collectively towards finding lasting solutions to the country’s security challenges.

While calling for unity among citizens, he encouraged Nigerians not to lose hope in the country despite the prevailing difficulties, expressing optimism that Nigeria would overcome its present challenges through collective commitment, patriotism and responsible leadership.

He further urged residents of Ibadan and Oyo State to celebrate responsibly, remain security conscious and continue to support security agencies with credible information capable of curbing criminal activities.