Former Governor of Zamfara State and Senator representing Zamfara West Senatorial District, Abdul-Aziz Abubakar Yari, has called on Nigerians to unite against insecurity, urging citizens to embrace collective responsibility in the fight against terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other forms of criminality threatening national peace.
In a statement issued in June 2026, Yari expressed deep concern over recent incidents of violence and insecurity across the country, describing the loss of innocent lives and the suffering inflicted on affected communities as a tragedy for the entire nation.
He extended his condolences to families who have lost loved ones and communities grappling with fear and uncertainty, stressing that the pain of any Nigerian should be regarded as a shared national burden.
“The pain of one Nigerian is the pain of all Nigerians. At moments such as this, we must remember that beyond our differences of ethnicity, religion, language or region, we remain one people bound together by a common destiny,” he said.
The former governor strongly condemned what he described as senseless acts of violence, warning that criminal elements seek to create fear, sow division and weaken national unity.
According to him, Nigerians must resist attempts by terrorists, bandits and kidnappers to divide the country along ethnic, religious or political lines, noting that the victims of insecurity come from all backgrounds and regions.
“Our response must be Nigerian—united, collective and unwavering,” Yari stated.
He emphasised that security should not be viewed solely as the responsibility of government and security agencies, but as a shared obligation requiring the active participation of citizens through vigilance, cooperation with law enforcement agencies and the provision of credible information.
Yari also appealed to traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth groups, women organisations and civil society groups to continue promoting peace, mutual understanding and community vigilance.
He urged community leaders to strengthen social cohesion and preserve the values of neighbourliness and trust that have historically held communities together.
The senator further commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the armed forces, intelligence agencies, the police and other security institutions for their efforts in confronting security challenges across the country.
While acknowledging that significant work remains to be done, he said security personnel deserve the support and cooperation of all patriotic Nigerians as they continue to protect lives and property.
Yari expressed optimism that Nigeria would overcome its current challenges, citing the country’s history of resilience in the face of adversity.
“This is not the time for despair. It is not the time for division. It is the time for unity, courage and collective resolve,” he said.
He called on Nigerians to stand together in support of affected communities, security personnel and one another, expressing confidence that national unity and faith would ultimately triumph over insecurity.
“With unity of purpose, faith in God and commitment to one another, we shall overcome these challenges. Nigeria will prevail. Peace will prevail. The spirit of our people will prevail,” he added.
