“They Have Turned the Fight Against Insecurity to Procurement” – Dr Abu Bakr Sadi Muhammad

Dr Abu Bakr Sadi Muhammad, Executive Director of the Centre for Democratic Development Research and Training in Zaria, has questioned the approach of Nigerian governments to insecurity, arguing that the fight against the situation has been turned into a procurement exercise.

Speaking during an interview with Channels Television, Dr Muhammad stated, “They have turned the fight against insecurity to procurement” while discussing state government responsibilities and the use of public funds to address the issue.

The development expert argued that purchasing equipment would not solve insecurity, insisting that governments must also address factors that encourage people to resort to crime.

According to him, the resolution of the situation requires more than the mere expenditure of funds on equipment, arguing that governments are tasked with steps that will improve the living standards of people and reduce factors that could encourage them to resort to crime.

Dr Muhammad questioned the benefits that Nigerians derive from the increased funds available to state governments after the removal of the fuel subsidy, arguing that despite the sums allocated to the states, many communities continue to experience serious challenges.

He cited the conditions of some schools and hospitals, poor roads and concerns about teachers’ salaries as requiring attention, arguing that the problems facing the country cannot be blamed on the Federal Government, as state governments have responsibilities to fulfill.

The development expert further called on President Bola Tinubu to provide leadership by holding state governors accountable for the manner in which they spend public funds.

He maintained that intellectuals have a responsibility to examine the actions of political leaders and question policies that do not appear to serve the interests of the people.

His comments formed part of a wider discussion on governance, insecurity, public spending and the state of the country as Nigeria prepares for the 2027 general elections.

You can start watching the video quote from 16:19–16:24.

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