The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has called on Nigerians to join the fight against bandits, unknown gunmen and other criminal elements to help sustain and promote democracy.

NSCDC commandant general Ahmed Audi made the call on Monday in Abuja to commemorate the nation’s Democracy Day.

Mr Audi said citizens needed to support President Bola Tinubu’s policies and programmes for a better Nigeria. He also said security agencies needed the cooperation of every citizen to secure the country effectively.

Therefore, Mr Audi asked citizens at all levels to provide credible information to help nip crime in the bud.

“If you see something, do not waste time saying something,” Mr Audi advised.

The NSCDC boss said only a secure society devoid of crimes would guarantee growth and development.

“A rise in being nationally security conscious is the first step towards creating a nation with a shared sense of national identity,” he added. “It also fosters common understanding amongst different ethnic groups, religions, tribes, and organisations.”

Mr Audi called on governments at all levels to support security agencies to function effectively in crime fighting and prevention, stressing the need for security agencies to heed the president’s advice on synergy and collaboration for effective service delivery.

Mr Audi noted that eradicating crime and criminality in the country required formidable internal security apparatus devoid of unhealthy rivalry.

He added, “Preserving Nigeria’s democracy is a collective effort in which protecting her people and critical national assets is our role.”

(NAN)