Lagos Assembly Speaker rallies citizens for safer communities

Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa, has called on Nigerians to actively participate in securing their communities, asserting that the responsibility should not fall solely on government and security agencies. Speaking at the 17th Annual Hijrah 1448 A.H. lecture, Obasa emphasized that security is a shared duty requiring robust cooperation among residents, community groups, and government institutions.

"We should be able to create security on our own," Obasa stated, highlighting the need for citizens to reflect on their individual and collective contributions to safer environments. He acknowledged existing security structures but stressed that their effectiveness hinges on active citizen support for maintaining peace and order. The annual Hijrah lecture, he noted, serves as an important platform for Nigerians to consider their societal responsibilities and pursue actions that benefit future generations.

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They have told us what should be our responsibility and that of leaders. The question is: what have we contributed to ensure security in our immediate environment? We should be able to create security on our own.

Islamic scholars and security experts present at the event echoed Obasa's sentiments. Owolabi Ajani, Chairman of the 17th Annual Hijrah celebration, emphasized that the event signifies not only rights and privileges but also the fulfillment of societal responsibilities. He referenced Islamic teachings promoting peace, justice, accountability, and respect for human life, urging adherence to moral values and lawful authority.

Guest lecturer Bukhari Ayinla, an alumnus of the University of Lagos, reinforced the critical role of citizens in national security, stating that it demands active participation from everyone. "The security of a nation is not the responsibility of security agencies alone. Citizens must also be their own security," Ayinla said, urging a shift from solely criticizing leaders to contributing positively to nation-building through collective efforts.

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The security of a nation is not the responsibility of security agencies alone. Citizens must also be their own security. The people of a country should not allow their nation to be destroyed.