The Southern and Middle Belt Leaders Forum (SMBLF) has raised concerns over Nigeria’s security situation, saying current strategies are not delivering effective results and require urgent review.In a statement signed by leaders of the group, including Afenifere leader Oba Oladipo Olaitan, Middle Belt Forum President Bitrus Kogu, Ohanaeze Ndigbo President-General John Azuta-Mbata, and PANDEF Chairman Godknows Igali, the forum said recent attacks across several states indicate worsening insecurity.
The group cited incidents in Plateau, Kaduna, Benue, Nasarawa, Borno, and Kwara states, where multiple communities were attacked, resulting in casualties. It said the pattern of violence suggests that insecurity is spreading beyond rural areas into urban centres.
While commending security forces for their efforts, the forum called for improved intelligence gathering, accountability, and better resourcing of security agencies.The statement also expressed concern over government policies perceived as lenient toward armed groups, referencing rehabilitation programmes and public comments by officials. It urged authorities to review such approaches to ensure they do not undermine deterrence.
SMBLF further called for a comprehensive overhaul of the country’s security architecture and advocated community-based approaches to safety. It also proposed stricter, regulated access to legal means of self-defence for citizens.The forum urged the Federal Government to prioritise the protection of lives and property and to adopt strategies that restore public confidence.
