Nigerian groups demand tougher action against terrorism

Civil society organizations in Nigeria are calling for more decisive action against terrorism, urging security agencies to intensify efforts to protect lives and property. The United Against Terror Movement (UATM) specifically appealed to citizens to actively support the fight against insecurity through credible intelligence sharing.

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We commend the DSS, the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Police Force and local vigilante groups for their sacrifices and renewed professionalism in tackling terrorism. However, the work is far from over, and every effort must be made to ensure Nigerians can live without fear.

While commending the Department of State Services (DSS), Nigerian Army, Police Force, and local vigilante groups for recent gains in counter-terrorism operations, the UATM stressed that the battle against violent extremism is far from over. "We commend the DSS, the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Police Force and local vigilante groups for their sacrifices and renewed professionalism in tackling terrorism. However, the work is far from over, and every effort must be made to ensure Nigerians can live without fear," said Okai Austin, the movement's convener.

Austin praised the DSS for its law-based approach, arresting suspects and allowing judicial processes rather than resorting to extrajudicial measures. He noted this approach strengthens public trust and demonstrates that terrorism can be tackled within the legal framework. "The DSS has shown that terrorism can be fought within the ambit of the law through arrests, investigations and successful prosecutions. This is a model that should continue," he added.

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The DSS has shown that terrorism can be fought within the ambit of the law through arrests, investigations and successful prosecutions. This is a model that should continue.

Despite acknowledging progress, Austin warned that terrorist groups remain a serious threat. He called for enhanced intelligence gathering, stronger coordination among security agencies, and more aggressive operations. "Terrorism remains a serious threat. Military commanders and political leaders must intensify intelligence gathering and eliminate violent extremism wherever it exists. Every attack on any Nigerian should be seen as an attack on the nation," he stated. He also urged Nigerians to support the #UnitedAgainstTerror campaign by volunteering credible information, emphasizing that public cooperation is critical to defeating terrorism.

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Terrorism remains a serious threat. Military commanders and political leaders must intensify intelligence gathering and eliminate violent extremism wherever it exists. Every attack on any Nigerian should be seen as an attack on the nation.