E.A. Valentine has issued a strong and emotional condemnation of the persistent killings occurring across Nigeria, calling for immediate action, renewed leadership, and national unity to address the worsening security crisis.
In a speech delivered to journalists, civil society groups, and concerned citizens, Valentine described the rising violence as a “deep wound on the conscience of the nation,” stressing that Nigeria cannot continue to function under the weight of widespread insecurity. He warned that the consistent loss of lives risks destroying the social fabric that binds the country together.
“Our nation is bleeding,” Valentine declared. “From the remote villages of the North to the bustling towns of the South, from farmlands in the Middle Belt to communities in the East and West, killings have become daily occurrences. This is not the Nigeria we inherited, and it must not be the Nigeria we pass on to the generations after us.”
Valentine emphasized that every life lost—regardless of ethnicity, religion, or region—represents a national tragedy. He cautioned against becoming desensitized to violence, saying that normalization of bloodshed threatens Nigeria’s identity and unity.
“We must never allow ourselves to get used to the pain around us,” he said. “When killings become statistics, humanity is in danger. When fear becomes a way of life, the soul of the nation begins to fade.”
Calls for Government Accountability
Addressing leaders at all levels, Valentine insisted that government must prioritize its primary duty: the protection of lives and property. He called for improved security strategies, better equipment for security agencies, and a rejection of political interference in security matters.
“Leadership is not a title; it is a responsibility,” he said. “The loss of human life must never be treated as routine. The government must respond with urgency, transparency, and strategy. Our security agencies must be empowered to do their job effectively and without fear.”
He urged government institutions to work collaboratively rather than in isolation, stressing that insecurity affects all Nigerians and requires a unified response.
Security as a Collective Responsibility
Valentine argued that the fight against insecurity cannot be left solely to the federal or state governments. He encouraged communities, traditional leaders, religious bodies, youth organizations, and civil society groups to work together to rebuild trust and strengthen cooperation.
“Security is a shared duty,” he said. “Peace cannot be achieved if we continue to act as if only one group must carry the burden. We must all be involved.”
Condemning Perpetrators of Violence
Valentine delivered a stern warning to terrorists, bandits, kidnappers, cultists, and all groups engaging in violent activities across the country. He described them as “enemies of peace” whose actions bring shame upon the country.
“You do not represent any tribe,” he declared. “You do not defend any religion. You cannot claim legitimacy while destroying innocent lives. Every act of violence is a crime against humanity.”
He called on violent groups to lay down their arms and choose dialogue and development over destruction.
Sympathy for Victims
Valentine extended heartfelt condolences to families affected by killings in various states including Borno, Plateau, Benue, Kaduna, Zamfara, Imo, Oyo, and Rivers. He urged the nation to honor victims not only with words, but through real reforms and proactive measures that address the root causes of violence.
“To every mother who has buried a child, to every father who has lost his life’s joy, to every community displaced—we mourn with you,” he said. “Your pain is the pain of the entire nation.”
Addressing Root Causes
Valentine noted that insecurity is often fueled by deep-rooted issues such as poverty, unemployment, injustice, corruption, and ethnic mistrust. He warned against focusing only on the symptoms while ignoring the underlying problems.
“Our youth need hope, not neglect,” he said. “Where there is no opportunity, frustration grows. When institutions fail, violence rises. When justice is selective, anger takes root.”
He urged Nigeria to invest in education, create economic opportunities, foster fairness, and rebuild public trust in government institutions.
Rejecting Tribalism and Religious Division
Valentine criticized politicians and groups who manipulate ethnic and religious differences for personal gain. He described such actions as dangerous and destructive, reminding Nigerians that unity is essential for national survival.
“Our diversity should be our greatest strength,” he said. “We must stop fighting each other and start fighting the problems threatening our future.”
Role of the Media
Valentine also appealed to the media to practice responsible reporting. While acknowledging the importance of truth, he warned against sensational headlines that inflame tensions or deepen divisions.
“Journalists must help the nation heal,” he said. “Report facts, but promote unity. Share stories of hope, not only despair.”
A Message of Hope
Despite the gravity of the situation, Valentine ended his address with a message of hope and resilience. He urged Nigerians not to give up on the country.
“We have survived crises before,” he said. “Our strength as a people has not disappeared. Though the night seems dark, dawn will come—if we choose peace, justice, and unity.”
He called for a collective national rebirth anchored in solidarity rather than division.
“Let us rise as Nigerians,” Valentine urged, “not as Hausa or Igbo or Yoruba or Tiv or Kanuri or Ijaw or Fulani, but as one people with one destiny. The killings must stop. Together, we must ensure they do.”