The Progressive Governors Forum (PGF) has called on traditional rulers across Nigeria to invoke spiritual guidance in tackling the country’s escalating security challenges.
While commending President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for strengthening the national security apparatus, the forum said the current situation demands additional spiritual intervention to complement existing measures.
The forum’s Chairman, Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State, made the appeal on Monday in Minna, Niger State, during a solidarity visit to Governor Umaru Mohammed Bago, following floods in Mokwa earlier this year and persistent bandit attacks across the state.
“We want to call on traditional rulers in the country to conjure with the gods of the land to protect the nation,” Uzodimma said.
Acknowledging the complexity of Nigeria’s security situation, Uzodimma admitted that conventional measures alone have struggled to curb the menace. He urged collective action and proactive engagement from all sectors, emphasizing that some disasters, particularly floods, could be mitigated through proper planning and preventive measures.
“It is a call to duty for governments at all levels to put in place preventive strategies to forestall future occurrences,” he added.
The PGF also expressed condolences over the loss of lives and property from recent disasters, noting that the visit was intended to offer solidarity and support to both the government and people of Niger State.
Governor Umaru Mohammed Bago thanked the forum for their visit and solidarity. He acknowledged the state’s struggles with insecurity, flooding, and other disasters, but said coordinated efforts with federal and state partners had helped Niger State cope with these challenges.
The visiting delegation included governors from Lagos, Imo, Ekiti, Ebonyi, Delta, and Kogi States, while governors of Jigawa, Kebbi, and Sokoto States were represented by their deputies. All local traditional rulers were present to welcome the Progressive Governors.
“This collective show of support demonstrates the importance of unity and collaboration in addressing Nigeria’s security and environmental challenges,” Uzodimma said.