A coalition of Civil Society Organisations in Katsina has called for urgent reforms to enhance transparency and accountability within the nation’s security architecture.
The call was made in a statement signed by the coalition’s chairman, Abdulrahman Abdullahi, and secretary, Kabir Shehu.
The coalition said the call became necessary in view of a viral video on social media in which Ahmed Lawal-Ibrahim, the commander of C-Watch in Dandume LGA, raised serious allegations concerning military operations in the area.
“The content of this video has sparked widespread concerns among citizens and underscores the urgent need for transparency and accountability within our national security framework.
“At this time when the state is bedevilled with rising cases of kidnapping for ransom and banditry in spite of being in dry season, the allegations coming from a retired senior military officer are too big to be given deaf ears.
“We therefore call upon President Bola Tinubu, the National Security Adviser Malam Nuhu Ribadu, Gov. Dikko Radda of Katsina, and national and state houses of assembly to initiate a comprehensive and transparent investigation into the claims presented in the video.
“Such an inquiry is essential to uphold the integrity of our security institutions and to maintain public trust in the fight against insecurity in the state,” the coalition said.
It added that the allegations, if substantiated, point to potential lapses in security protocols and oversight.
The coalition urged the authorities to address these concerns promptly to prevent further erosion of confidence in “our security apparatus.”
It suggested the launch of an independent investigation, including establishing a panel comprising members from various sectors, including CSOs, to ensure an unbiased review of the allegations.
“They should also implement reforms, should the allegations be validated, take immediate corrective actions to address the identified issues and prevent future occurrences,” the statement said.
(NAN)
