Oluwatobi Adu 
Former Senator, Shehu Sani
ABUJA, Nigeria – Former Senator Shehu Sani has called for grassroots participation in combating insecurity in northern Nigeria, stressing that residents must actively complement government security measures to counter banditry and terrorism.
Speaking with newsmen on Saturday, Sani highlighted that relying solely on security forces leaves gaps in protection, as authorities cannot cover all areas simultaneously. He emphasised that community resilience and coordinated pushback are vital for long-term stability.
Sani expressed concern over the decade-long crisis in northern states, which has caused abductions, destruction of settlements, and mass displacement.
“There is no dream for you to realise in Europe; your dream can be realised here, in your own country,” Sani warned, urging youths to pursue safe opportunities locally rather than facing exploitation abroad.
The ex-lawmaker, also a playwright, recently released two publications exploring these issues: The Village and the Vigilante and The Councillor and the Perilous Path to Europe: The Sahara Odyssey, addressing migration risks and insecurity-driven displacement.
Sani concluded that community vigilance, local collaboration, and youth empowerment are essential to restoring peace and sustainable development in affected regions.
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