By Noah Ocheni, Lokoja
A Professor of Criminology and Sociology of Law, Etannibi Alemika, has identified bad governance and systemic corruption as the root causes of Nigeria’s high insecurity rate.
Speaking over the weekend in Lokoja, Alemika emphasized that good governance and a corruption-free society are essential in addressing the country’s security challenges. He made this assertion while delivering the 12th Distinguished Public Lecture at the Multipurpose Hall of the Federal University Lokoja (FUL) on Friday.
“The antidote to insecurity is good governance, which involves mobilizing and coordinating a country’s resources and the efforts of its citizens to promote security, safety, development, and freedom,” he stated.
In his lecture, titled **”Combating Insecurity Through Good Governance and Partnership Between Government and Citizens,”** Alemika stressed that security agencies alone cannot solve the nation’s security problems.
He maintained that the rising cases of insurgency, banditry, and kidnapping could only be tackled through effective governance and the eradication of corruption.
The guest lecturer, while noting that insecurity is a global challenge, recommended that the government provide essential social amenities and infrastructure to improve citizens’ living conditions as a key step in curbing the menace.
“Nigeria is currently plagued by complex and multi-dimensional security threats caused by dysfunctional economic and political structures, compounded by massive systemic corruption across all sectors,” he stated.
Alemika further explained that corruption goes beyond financial inducement to perpetuate wrongdoing; it also includes unethical practices that favor certain groups at the expense of others.
He emphasized that combating insecurity requires collective responsibility, urging citizens to support security agencies by providing timely and accurate information.
“A nation that prioritizes accountability, honesty, integrity, and transparency stands a better chance of ensuring security and a conducive environment for its people,” he said.
Alemika also urged the executive and legislative arms of government at all levels to fulfill their constitutional responsibilities in protecting citizens, ensuring that criminals have no space to operate.
He attributed rising insecurity to poverty and illiteracy, calling on the government to take decisive steps to eradicate or significantly reduce these challenges.
Earlier, in his welcome address, the Vice-Chancellor of Federal University Lokoja, Prof. Olayemi Akinwumi, described the lecture as timely, given the prevailing security challenges in the country.
Akinwumi appealed to political leaders at all levels to remain committed to their constitutional duties in safeguarding the citizenry.
