Sanwo-Olu calls for support for Tinubu and security forces as insecurity rises

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has urged Nigerians to support President Bola Tinubu and security forces. This call comes as the country faces increasing security issues in various areas. Sanwo-Olu believes that Nigeria can overcome the dangers posed by criminal groups.

In a statement on Saturday, Governor Sanwo-Olu acknowledged that recent attacks and kidnappings have raised public fears. He encouraged citizens to keep their faith in Nigeria’s ability to tackle and defeat insecurity.

The governor emphasized that national unity and backing for security forces are essential to overcoming these challenges. He pointed out that those who commit violence target people regardless of their political, ethnic, or religious backgrounds.

"This is the time we must stand united as one people behind our nation’s leader, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (GCFR) and all of our armed forces. The forces of evil confronting our nation do not ask for our political affiliation before they kill, maim and destroy. So must our resolve and support for our nation be devoid of political leanings and divisive rhetorics," the statement said.

Mr Sanwo-Olu stated that defeating criminal groups needs cooperation between the government, security agencies, and local communities. He urged citizens to stay alert, support lawful security operations, and share information that could help authorities stop attacks and catch the criminals.

He expressed confidence in President Tinubu’s leadership and the capability of the military and other security agencies to handle the threats facing the nation. The governor also praised security personnel who risk their lives daily to protect communities and ensure national stability.

"Every day, brave men and women put themselves in harm’s way to defend our nation and preserve our freedoms. They deserve our prayers and our motivation to lift their spirits as they take on these forces of evil.

"The work being done to strengthen our security setup, improve intelligence gathering, and confront criminal networks across the country needs patience, determination, and national unity. Lasting solutions are rarely achieved overnight, but progress is possible when a nation stands firmly behind those charged with protecting it," he said.

Governor Sanwo-Olu described the recent loss of lives in attacks as tragic and expressed solidarity with communities affected by violence. He specifically called for prayers and support for teachers and students kidnapped in Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State, stating that the nation should not forget the victims of insecurity.

"Every life lost is a tragedy. Every community threatened by violence deserves our solidarity, support, and protection. As a people, we must continue to keep the victims of these unfortunate incidents in our thoughts and prayers. We must be united in our prayers for the teachers and students abducted from Orire Local Government in Oyo State," he said.

The governor encouraged Nigerians to face the challenges in the country with courage and resilience, rather than fear and division. He called on young people, families, and communities to remain hopeful and steadfast, insisting that Nigeria's future is bright despite current issues.

Sanwo-Olu’s comments come as insecurity concerns grow in many parts of Nigeria, including kidnapping, attacks on communities, and assaults on schools. In Oyo State, gunmen attacked three schools in Oriire Local Government Area on 15 May, abducting many pupils and seven teachers.

The victims were rescued days later during a police operation that reportedly resulted in the deaths of two suspected kidnappers. These events have sparked debate over how effective security measures are and the need for better intelligence gathering, improved community policing, and closer collaboration between citizens and law enforcement.

Mr Tinubu’s administration has consistently promised to strengthen Nigeria’s security structure and fight criminal networks. State governors have also continued to call for greater public involvement in addressing security threats.