At the recent South-East Regional Security Summit in Umuahia, Senator General Ike Omar Sanda Nwachukwu emphasized that true security extends beyond the mere absence of violence. He argued that it requires justice, trust, and opportunity. The speaker highlighted that current instability in the South-East is a symptom of a deeper loss of public confidence in leadership and institutions.
The General proposed six key strategies to improve regional safety. First, he stressed that intelligence-led operations are superior to reliance on firepower alone. Second, he called for community-wide engagement, involving traditional rulers, teachers, and youth groups as active stakeholders. Third, he identified development and job creation as critical security investments, noting that hopelessness makes youth vulnerable to criminal recruitment.
Fourth, he urged for a clear distinction between peaceful political grievances and actual criminality. Fifth, he advocated for stronger regional collaboration, noting that criminal networks do not respect state borders. Finally, he addressed the need for an evolving national security architecture. Specifically, he suggested that the military re-examine its force distribution to ensure that the South-East, given its economic and demographic significance, is equitably integrated into national defense structures.
The address concluded with a call for leadership to model peaceful political conduct. The General emphasized that lasting peace is earned through legitimacy and inclusive governance rather than force alone.
