Gbenga Olawepo-Hassim calls for global, regional cooperation to combat Nigeria’s insurgency

Gbenga Olawepo-Hassim, presidential candidate of the Accord Party, has called for an international conference on security as part of a broader strategy to tackle insurgency in Nigeria and the Sahel region. He made the appeal Tuesday during an appearance on Channels Television's Politics Today, stressing that Nigeria cannot address insecurity in isolation. Olawepo-Hassim emphasized the need for collaboration with neighbouring countries, naming Chad, Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso as critical partners. He argued that extremist networks in the Sahel are interconnected and that Nigeria's efforts are undermined without regional coordination. The candidate pointed to the aftermath of the Libya conflict as a key factor in the spread of extremist groups across West Africa. He noted that Russia is now involved in Mali's security efforts while France, which he said contributed to the instability, must also be part of the solution. Olawepo-Hassim criticized current government policies, saying they reflect a lack of understanding of national security by political leaders. His remarks followed the recent abduction of teachers and students in Oyo State, which has drawn widespread public concern. He maintained that the crisis is more complex than officially acknowledged and requires integrated international and regional input. The candidate did not outline specific policy mechanisms but insisted on a strategic shift beyond domestic responses. He reiterated that cooperation with both regional neighbours and global actors is non-negotiable for lasting security.

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