Corruption, Drug Abuse Fueling Insurgency – Clerics, Security Experts

Religious leaders and security experts have identified corruption and widespread drug abuse as key drivers of the nation’s escalating insurgency and terrorism.

These concerns were raised at a public lecture titled The Role of Ummah in Addressing Insecurity and Drug Abuse in Nigeria, organised by the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) at the National Mosque, Abuja.

MURIC founder and keynote speaker, Professor Ishaq Akintola, asserted that the Nigerian military could have eradicated insurgency in the North East and other forms of terrorism long ago if not for the corrupt practices of government officials who diverted security funds for personal gain and political campaigns.

“Current Nigerian soldiers would have eliminated the terrorists long ago. But how do soldiers fight without good weapons and ammunition?

“You will remember the sum of 2.1 billion dollars meant for arms procurement during the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan. The money was diverted and distributed among politicians ahead of the 2015 election,” he said.

Professor Akintola attributed the rise of terrorism to corruption and urged national leaders, both Muslim and Christian, to engage in sincere dialogue rather than seek foreign intervention.

Also speaking,Hajiya Rahma Musa Sani, Deputy Ameera of Women in Da’wah, linked terrorism directly to drug abuse, calling on authorities to address the issue. She said most violent acts are committed under the influence of drugs.

On his part, Femi Babafemi, Director of Media and Advocacy at the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), commended religious leaders for their support in combating illicit drugs, noting the strong link between substance abuse and criminality.

He said religious leaders wield enormous influence in shaping values, promoting peace and guiding communities, adding that substance abuse is a major contributor to violent crime.

Representing the Chief of Army Staff, the Deputy Director of Islamic Affairs, A.A. Ovurevu, called for stronger collaboration between security agencies and the public, stressing that a drug-free society would significantly reduce crime.