By Isaiah Eka
Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) have launched campaign against terror and terrorism activities in Akwa Ibom tagged, “Akwa Ibom Unite Against Terror.”
The campaign which was launched in Uyo on Saturday called on citizens of the state and country to work with security agencies especially, in intelligence sharing to tackle the menace.
The CSOs described terror and terrorism activities as the single greatest threat to peace, safety and unity of Nigeria.
Speaking at event, Mr Franklyn Isong, Director, Centre for Humanity Rights and Accountability Network (CHRAN) stated that terrorism has shattered homes and torn families apart.
Isong said that terrorism had caused widespread suffering affecting people of every religion, ethnic group and background.
“Akwa Ibom, unite against terror” is the core message for the campaign. Terrorism is a common enemy.
“If you witness suspicious activity or crime and remain silent, you create space for harm to grow, and eventually it will reach you.
“Our call is simple: if you see something, say something. Save contact details of security agencies, share timely information, and work alongside government authorities to protect lives and communities,” Isong said.
Isong noted that insecurity was a national crisis, evident in ongoing challenges across the North‑East, North‑Central, North‑West South‑West, South East and creeping to all parts of the country.
He warned that while Akwa Ibom may currently appear peaceful, it was not immune to the threat of terrorism.
“The same elements operating elsewhere are present here. Even those who cannot see can sense that safety has become fragile across Nigeria,” he said.
Mr Clifford Thomas, Executive Director of Foundation for Civic Education, Human Rights and Development Advancement, advocated for the use of local technology to curb insecurity in the country.
Thomas called on traditional rulers across the country to see terrorism as a threat against Nigeria and not against a particular religion or group.
He said traditional rulers should devise a method of protecting their domain and ensure peace within their communities, instead of folding their hands waiting for government and security agencies alone.
Thomas emphasised that reporting to formal security bodies was essential, but added that communities must also look to their own structures and capabilities when official response was slow or insufficient.
“Do not wait passively for harm to strike.
“Section 33 (2) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended) guarantees every citizen the right to lawful self‑defence, though this must never mean unrestrained violence or extra‑judicial action,” Thomas said.
Thomas said that CSOs would continue to keep condemning violence and all those funding or supporting terrorism in the country.
He called on religious leaders, traditional rulers, youth groups and all citizens to join in ensuring that no part of the state and country becomes a haven for terror.
