Crime

A Labour Party gubernatorial aspirant in Kwara State, Alhaji Tunde Taofeek Araoye, has called for a fundamental shift in Nigeria’s approach to security, urging authorities to extend the same level of commitment seen during elections to the protection of lives and property all year round.

Araoye made this known in a statement issued and made available to DailyLinks, where he expressed concern over what he described as a “painful contradiction” in the nation’s security framework.

“If we can protect the integrity of votes during elections, why can’t we protect the lives and property of our citizens every day after?” he queried.

According to him, elections in Nigeria are often marked by massive deployment of security personnel, aerial surveillance, and coordinated operations aimed at safeguarding the electoral process.

However, he noted that this intensity quickly diminishes once elections conclude, leaving many communities vulnerable to criminal activities.

He lamented that across the country, including Kwara State, insecurity continues to disrupt livelihoods, with incidents of kidnapping, armed robbery, cult violence, and farmer-herder conflicts forcing residents to abandon farms and businesses.

Describing the situation as both “heartbreaking and dangerous,” Araoye stressed the need for urgent and innovative solutions that go beyond conventional security responses.

The Labour Party aspirant proposed an agriculture-driven strategy as a sustainable pathway to addressing insecurity.

He suggested reclaiming forest areas currently used as hideouts by criminal elements and transforming them into productive agricultural estates.

He said such an approach would not only enhance food production but also create employment opportunities for young people, thereby reducing their vulnerability to criminal recruitment.

“We must begin to treat agriculture not just as a development sector, but as a security strategy,” he said.

He added that investments in farming, agro-processing, and rural infrastructure could restore both economic stability and public safety.

Araoye emphasized that youth empowerment remains central to tackling insecurity, noting that unemployment and lack of opportunities have pushed many young people into desperation.

He called for increased access to education, skills training, capital, and technology, urging government and stakeholders to actively involve youths as partners in development.

The aspirant further advocated a multi-stakeholder approach to security, involving traditional rulers, local governments, private sector players, and community members.

He encouraged citizens to remain vigilant and cooperate with authorities by sharing timely information.

“Real security is not just the absence of violence; it is the presence of opportunity,” he stated.

Araoye also cautioned against prioritizing political ambitions over pressing national challenges, warning that the build-up to the 2027 elections should not overshadow the urgent need to address insecurity and economic hardship.

He reaffirmed his belief in the potential of Kwara State and Nigeria, calling for collective action to transform fear into progress and underutilized resources into engines of growth.

In a political note, he reiterated that the Labour Party remains open to new members and stakeholders willing to contribute to positive change, inviting professionals, youths, and leaders to join the movement.

Araoye also extended Easter greetings to Christians, praying for renewed hope, peace, and unity in the country.

He expressed optimism that the spirit of the season would inspire improved security, sustainable economic development, and national cohesion.

“The time for bold decisions is now. Let us protect our people, not just their votes,” he said.