By Fredrick Okopie

AS Nigeria’s 51st independence anniversary approaches, major parts of the country, especially the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, and Lagos state, the commercial hub of Nigeria have been placed on red alert based on fear of possible security breaches. This is also against the backdrop of last year’s independence bombing that almost marred the golden jubilee celebration in Abuja.

There were subsequent bombings and threats of bombing all over the country. The most recent occurred at the United Nations building in Abuja and claimed over 20 lives.This scenario has led stakeholders, non-governmental organisations, religious groups, human rights organisation to collaborate with the Federal Government and security agencies to find ways of managing this new form of terrorism.

It is in this wise that the Apapa Local Government Area chairman, Mr Ayodeji Joseph recently embarked on a grass root campaign to raise security consciousness within the local council. According to him, Apapa is a vital town in Nigeria, since it plays host to the country’s two most important ports(Tincan Island Port and Apapa Quay), federal establishments and other maritime companies and individual businesses.

Speaking to journalists at the council premises, Mr. Joseph, advised residents to report any suspicious movement to security agencies and be on the look out for strange faces they are not too familiar with. “Please let me tell you, security issues are not to be left for government alone to handle; that is why all suspicious movement should be reported to those in charge of security in our immediate communities and strange faces should be monitored.

“We all experienced what happened last year during the 50th independence anniversary in Abuja and the recent United Nations building bombings. As Nigeria celebrate her independence in few days, I call on everyone not only in Apapa, but all over the country to be on the look out for unscrupulous activities that can mar the 51st anniversary,” he pleaded.

The council boss also appealed to all those killing others because of religion or other reasons to embrace peace. He emphasized that no religion allows killing since it is God who created life, adding that everyone should respect the sanctity of life.