Abuja, October 3, 2024 —
The Igbo World Union (IWU) has attributed the rising insecurity in Nigeria to a combination of poverty, unemployment, and widespread corruption.
In a statement issued today, the organization called for urgent reforms to address the root causes of violence and criminal activities across the country.
Speaking at a press briefing, His Imperial Majesty, Amb. Sir Dr Mishak Nnanta (KJW, Ksm, JP), President-General of IWU, Gburugburu Ndigbo Dum, emphasized the growing link between economic hardship and the escalating crime rate, particularly in the southeastern region. He highlighted that many young people, unable to secure employment or support their families, are increasingly turning to crime as a means of survival.
“Poverty and unemployment are breeding grounds for insecurity. When people are hungry and jobless, they become easy targets for recruitment into criminal organizations,” Nnanta said.
“This situation is further worsened by the endemic corruption that drains public resources and prevents meaningful development.”
The IWU President called on the Nigerian government to implement policies aimed at reducing poverty by creating jobs, especially for the youth, and intensifying efforts to fight corruption at all levels of governance. He stressed that without these measures, the country’s security challenges will persist, threatening national unity and stability.
Nnanta also urged the private sector to invest in job creation initiatives and engage with local communities to provide sustainable solutions.
“The fight against insecurity is not solely the responsibility of the government. We all have a role to play in ensuring peace and stability,” he added.
The Igbo World Union’s call comes at a time when Nigeria is grappling with various security challenges, including insurgency in the northeast, banditry in the northwest, and secessionist agitations in the southeast. Analysts have often pointed to economic disenfranchisement and governance failures as major drivers of these conflicts.
In conclusion, the IWU emphasized the need for a multi-pronged approach to tackling insecurity, suggesting that addressing the socioeconomic factors fueling unrest is crucial to restoring peace and prosperity in Nigeria.
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