By Gift Chapi Odekina, Abuja

A coalition has expressed support for President Bola Tinubu’s efforts to address insecurity in the country, while cautioning against what it described as attempts to politicise security challenges.

The group, led by its Director of Programmes, Johnson Michael, made the position known in a statement issued on Thursday, while also calling on security agencies to take action against activist and publisher, Omoyele Sowore, over alleged activities it claimed undermine national security and sovereignty.

The coalition commended President Tinubu and the Chief of Army Staff for measures aimed at strengthening the military, including the expansion of the Nigerian Army and improved salaries and welfare packages for personnel of the Armed Forces.

It also praised the military and other security agencies for their efforts in protecting Nigeria’s democracy and territorial integrity.

“We commend Mr. President and the Chief of Army Staff for expanding our military and improving the welfare of our men and women in uniform. These are not small achievements, but the foundation of the safety we all seek,” Michael said.

The group urged Nigerians to support ongoing security efforts rather than turn insecurity into a political issue.

“Mr. President is working tirelessly to end insecurity, and Nigeria is winning the war against insecurity, so stop the politicisation of insecurity. This is not a game for cheap popularity; lives are at stake,” it said.

The coalition also stated that the planned implementation of the new national minimum wage next year should not be distracted by political activities.

Calling on the Inspector-General of Police, the Chief of Defence Staff, service chiefs, heads of intelligence agencies, the National Security Adviser and President Tinubu, the group demanded that Sowore be arrested and prosecuted.

“Arrest Omoyele Sowore for undermining national security. If Professor Pat Utomi could appear before the appropriate authorities, if coup plotters have stood before the law, if SERAP has responded to legal processes, then Sowore is not above the law. Let him appear before a competent court and answer the charges levelled against him,” the statement said.

The coalition also cautioned against demonstrations around court premises, arguing that judicial facilities should not be used as platforms for political confrontations or activities capable of disrupting proceedings.

“Sowore does not have a monopoly on public protest. He does not own the streets of Nigeria. Court premises must not be turned into arenas for political confrontation or activities capable of disrupting judicial proceedings,” Michael stated.

The group said it would organise peaceful counter-demonstrations if Sowore and his supporters staged protests around court premises.

It urged Nigerians to remain united in the fight against insecurity and terrorism, stressing that collective efforts were necessary for national peace, stability and prosperity.