AC asks FG to declare emergency in the security sector
The Federal Government has been charged to act immediately to stem the worsening state of insecurity across the nation, warning that there can be no prosperity without security.

The National Publicity Secretary of the Action Congress (AC), Alhaji Lai Mohammed, also reminded President Umaru Musa Yar'Adua that the reason for the existence of any government is the welfare and security of the citizens.

It also condemned the activities of bandits, especially in the Niger Delta and Rivers State in particular.
The party said the Federal Government should immediately declare an emergency in the security sector and follow up with all necessary and lawful means to restore safety across the nation.

"The last time we checked, Nigeria had not been declared a failed state. But the happenings in recent times, where robbers attack banks anywhere they choose, harass and kill motorists even in traffic in major cities like Lagos and hold streets to ransom for hours on end are the hallmarks of a failed state.

AC said in the short term, it may be necessary to seek the involvement of the military, by deploying soldiers on joint patrols with the Police in worst hit areas in order to check the activities of the robbers who have been emboldened by the fact that they are clearly better armed than the Police.

"As a long term measure, the government should empower the Police by updating their training, weapons and other necessary equipment as well as boosting the morale of the rank and file through better salaries and allowances and improved general welfare.

AC warned that inaction would render null and void any move by the government to turn the economy around, since investors, local or foreign, would not put their hard-earned money in an insecure environment.