Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai urged a renewed focus on national security centered on citizens’ safety, justice, and societal wellbeing on Sunday.
He emphasized that true security ensures Nigerians live long, prosper, and enjoy peace, freedom, and protection from crime or arbitrary harm.
He warned that institutions tasked with public protection, including police, DSS, EFCC, ICPC, and judiciary, must not be misused for political purposes.
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El-Rufai explained regime security differs from national security, as it protects incumbents, manipulates agencies, and prioritizes political survival over public interest.
He stressed the dangers of politicizing security, warning that partisan practices erode public trust, undermine professional capacity, and weaken institutional credibility nationwide.
“When security agencies target opposition or perceived critics, fear replaces legitimacy, criminal networks exploit distrust, and democracy itself becomes threatened,” he stated firmly.
El-Rufai highlighted that selective enforcement damages the economy, discourages investors, radicalizes politics, and deepens insecurity across communities already vulnerable to violence.
He urged a human-centered security approach aligned with constitutional values, justice, and citizen dignity, noting opposition is essential for a functioning democracy.
“National security belongs to the Nigerian people, not temporary officeholders. Agencies must protect homes, livelihoods, and futures rather than preserve incumbents’ power,” he concluded.
