From Theo James
Human Rights Lawyer and a Commentator on National issues, Barr Ifeanyi Ejiofor (Dunu-Ezeugosinachi) has described the abduction of NYSC members on their way to serve their Fatherland as a tragedy that demands national introspection.
Ejiofor noted that the ugly development is a tragedy that breaks the heart, shakes the conscience of a nation, and exposed the painful inadequacies of the collective commitment to the sanctity of human life.
He called for a decisive intervention and a fundamental reassessment of the nation's security priorities.
"Young Nigerians, fresh graduates brimming with hope, ambition and aspirations for a brighter future, were reportedly intercepted and kidnapped while travelling to fulfil their statutory obligation to their fatherland.
"Behind every abducted corps member is a family whose world has suddenly been plunged into unimaginable anguish. Imagine the sacrifices of parents who laboured relentlessly, sometimes under extraordinarily difficult circumstances, to educate their children from primary school through university.
"Only to be confronted with the horrifying reality that those same children have been kidnapped while undertaking a national assignment. The emotional devastation, helplessness and uncertainty such families must endure are beyond ordinary human expression.
"The fundamental question that arises from this unfortunate incident is whether Nigeria must invariably wait for tragedy to occur before activating the full machinery of the State.
"Must innocent citizens first be abducted before our security institutions mobilise their resources with the urgency such situations demand? Can our national security architecture not become sufficiently proactive to anticipate, identify and neutralise emerging threats before they culminate in such heartbreaking circumstances?" He quipped.
Barr Ejiofor said it is heartwarming that senior security personnel have been allegedly deployed to Imo State to facilitate rescue operations.
He urged all relevant security agencies to sustain and intensify the efforts of deploying every available lawful, intelligence-driven and operational resource to secure the immediate and safe release of the abducted corps members, adding that the rescue of the NYSC Members, must be the overriding priority.
"However, beyond the immediate rescue mission, Nigeria must confront the deeper and more disturbing realities of recurring kidnappings and the growing vulnerability of citizens travelling along our highways. Rescue operations, however commendable, cannot permanently substitute for preventive security measures.
"The NYSC scheme was established to promote national unity, integration and mutual understanding among young Nigerians. Its noble objectives must not, however, become a justification for exposing corps members to unacceptable security risks. No national programme, however laudable, should place the lives of innocent young citizens in jeopardy.
"To the families of the abducted corps members, I extend my deepest sympathies and heartfelt solidarity. May Almighty God strengthen you in this moment of unimaginable anguish, sustain your faith and grant you the comfort and fortitude to endure this ordeal. May your children return home safely, unharmed and reunited with their loved ones.
"A nation that calls upon its children to serve must first demonstrate an unwavering commitment to protecting their lives. The safety of corps members is not a privilege or a discretionary favour; it is a fundamental national responsibility.
"Nigeria must therefore move beyond reactive security interventions and embrace a proactive, intelligence-driven and citizen-centred security framework. The time has come to demonstrate, through decisive action, that the protection of human life is indeed the primary purpose of governance.
"May this painful incident mark the beginning of a new national resolve to protect our young people, secure our highways and restore the confidence of citizens in the capacity of the State.
"Enough of the avoidable tragedies. Enough of the recurring lamentations. Let security become a proactive national duty rather than a reaction to preventable calamities.
"Nigeria must not wait for another grieving parent before it remembers that every corps member is somebody’s child, somebody’s hope, somebody’s future and, above all, a precious Nigerian life." Barr Ejiofor asserted
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