"Nigeria Is Going Round in Circles": Citizens, Youth Leaders Break Silence on Insecurity, Leadership and a Nation Under Fear
As kidnappings, violent attacks, and growing fears over public safety continue to dominate national conversations, many Nigerians say the country is trapped in a recurring cycle of crisis and unfulfilled promises. From concerns about leadership and accountability to rising frustration over insecurity, citizens from different backgrounds are increasingly speaking out, warning that unless both leaders and the public embrace meaningful change, Nigeria may continue “going round in circles” while its challenges deepen.
The recent wave of kidnappings and violent attacks across Nigeria, particularly the abduction of schoolchildren and other victims in Oyo State, has triggered strong reactions from citizens, journalists, youth leaders, and public figures who say the country’s security challenges can no longer be ignored.
Among those who have voiced concern is Hon. Comr. Ajayi Timileyin, popularly known as TimzExpert and Director of Special Duties and Interventions at the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) Headquarters.
In a series of WhatsApp status posts, Ajayi expressed worry over what he described as the worsening state of insecurity, despite his continued support for the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“Although I remain a supporter of the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the APC government, I must express deep concern over the worsening state of insecurity across our nation,” he stated.
He described the increasing cases of kidnapping and the loss of innocent lives, particularly among students and children, as heartbreaking and unacceptable.
“As loyal supporters of this government, this is not the time to remain silent. True loyalty demands honesty,” he wrote, urging authorities to intensify efforts to protect lives and property.
Ajayi further stressed that Nigeria belongs to all citizens and that public safety must never be compromised.
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Similarly, independent journalist Enoch Oyedibu questioned the silence of some religious figures who previously claimed extraordinary influence over political outcomes.
In a Facebook post, Oyedibu referenced a cleric who had once claimed to possess what would make a particular politician become governor but had remained silent amid the recent wave of kidnappings.
He questioned why such influence was not being used to secure the release of innocent victims or address the growing insecurity affecting communities.
In another post, the journalist criticized what he described as selective reactions to insecurity, questioning why some organizations only became vocal after attacks reached certain areas.
According to him, earlier and more consistent advocacy against violence in previously affected communities could have helped draw greater attention to the threat before it spread further.
For Asiyanbi Blessing, the conversation extends beyond insecurity to the broader issue of political participation and public trust.
He revealed that he has considered obtaining a Permanent Voter’s Card (PVC) ahead of the next presidential election but remains uncertain about participating when outcomes often appear predetermined.
He argued that unless Nigerians change their mindset and approach to governance, the nation risks repeating the same mistakes.
“We will continue to get to the same destination we don’t like if we continue with the same plans,” he said, adding that Nigeria may continue moving in circles without meaningful changes in political culture and civic responsibility.
Also speaking with this reporter, student leader, political strategist, and media professional Awosina Kehinde Johnson linked the persistence of insecurity to what he described as a disconnect between political leaders and ordinary citizens.
“The only reason political leaders wait until tragedies happen is because they are never affected,” he said.
Johnson argued that many political officeholders and their families do not experience the realities faced by ordinary Nigerians, making it easier for them to delay decisive action.
On measures needed to combat kidnapping, he insisted that the country already understands the nature of the problem.
“Our leaders know the terrorists. We can clear them in a month if we are ready,” he said.
He further called for sincerity and political will in tackling insecurity.
“Allow the truth to prevail and stop using people’s lives to play politics,” he added.
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The comments, though varied in tone and perspective, reflect a growing sense of frustration among Nigerians who believe insecurity has become one of the nation’s most urgent challenges.
From calls for stronger government action and accountability to concerns about political culture and leadership, the message from many citizens remains clear: the protection of lives must take precedence over politics, and lasting solutions to insecurity can no longer be delayed.
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