Stakeholders in Zamfara State have advocated for a comprehensive review of security policies to combat escalating banditry and kidnapping in the state.

A cross-section of people interviewed in the state expressed mixed feelings while reacting to the Democracy Day celebration.

They advised the government at all levels and security agencies to overhaul current security strategies to tackle modern threats.

They also stressed the need for continuous public engagement to build trust and ensure effective security.

Malam Yusuf Idris, an APC Chieftain, called for collaborative efforts from all stakeholders in Zamfara to effectively address insecurity.

Mr Idris urged residents to recognise and cooperate with law enforcement agencies and governments at all levels to further consolidate on the achievements recorded so far.

“Government at all levels and security agencies must double their efforts to ensure that lasting peace is restored in our communities,” he said.

While acknowledging the gains of democratic governance from 1999 to date, particularly in infrastructure, Mr Idris said, “I consider this a major democratic achievement, as we have witnessed massive transformation in our cities, towns and villages.

“Especially under the President Bola Tinubu-led administration, Nigeria is undergoing massive infrastructure transformation in transportation, digital technology, and urban development.

“But the major concern of Nigerians remains insecurity, and the provision of security is a collective responsibility. Every Nigerian has a role to play in achieving that.”

Musa Umar, a member of a civil society organisation, urged authorities to leverage local intelligence networks, provide early warning systems, and support grassroots conflict resolution.

He said the government must also address poverty, unemployment and illiteracy as key drivers of insecurity.

A solicitor, Mukhtar Bello, urged policymakers to review the nation’s democratic journey towards addressing security and economic challenges.

“Government should strengthen democratic institutions, rebuild public trust, and reform.

“Leaders must actively combat corruption, address poverty, unemployment, economic hardship, and ensure the provision of quality education built on critical thinking and justice,” Mr Bello said.

An engineer, Habib Ayo, described the security of lives and property as key to peaceful coexistence, thereby facilitating societal growth and development.

“If security is guaranteed, every sector of development will operate without distraction.

“Our socio-economic activities cannot thrive without relative peace, hence the need for government and security agencies to brace up in discharging their constitutional responsibilities to secure our communities,” Mr Ayo explained.

On his part, a lecturer, Malam Muhammad Bello-Sidi, observed that Democracy Day should be a call to action, not just a series of ceremonies and holidays.

“From academia, we always highlight the need for functional, independent arms of government in Nigeria. The judiciary and legislature must always uphold the rule of law,” he said.

 (NAN)