Nigerian actress Rita Edochie has called on community leaders to take urgent action against insecurity, particularly the surge in kidnappings and terrorist attacks across the country.

Taking to Instagram, the actress shared a photo of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the secessionist group Indigenous People of Biafra, who was recently sentenced to life imprisonment on terrorism charges. Alongside the image, she reflected on Kanu’s past warnings about the spread of terrorism, noting that his concerns were previously dismissed.

Edochie proposed that the strongest members of each community be armed and deployed strategically to curb the activities of kidnappers and bandits. In her post, she wrote:

“BIKONU, LET EVERY COMMUNITY PROPERLY ARM THEIR YOUTHS, THE ONES THAT CAN THOUGH, ASK THEM TO GET INTO THEIR BUSHES AND FORESTS, AND SEE THESE KIDNAPPINGS STOP OVERNIGHT.
THE TERRORISTS AND BANDITS ARE EMBOLDENED BECAUSE THEY ARE ARMED…
THE YOUTHS OF EVERY COMMUNITY KNOW THE TERRAIN MORE THAN THE FOREIGN ELEMENTS AND CAN EASILY AMBUSH AND DESTROY THEM.”

She emphasized that corruption and past protection from government officials had allowed terrorists to flourish, but that many are now isolated and could be confronted effectively by local communities if leaders act decisively.

“IF YOU DON’T START THIS NOW, IT’S COMING TO YOUR DOORSTEPS,” Edochie warned.

Opinion: Community-Led Security Could Be Part of the Solution — With Caution

Rita Edochie’s call highlights a pressing concern: the increasing insecurity in Nigeria has left many communities feeling vulnerable and underserved by official security forces. Her suggestion to leverage local knowledge and community strength is rooted in a long-recognized truth — locals often understand their terrain and environment far better than external forces.

However, while arming youths might seem like a quick fix, it also carries significant risks. Vigilante actions without proper training, oversight, or accountability can escalate violence, lead to unintended casualties, and sometimes exacerbate tensions within communities.

A balanced approach might involve:

Community policing initiatives supported by formal law enforcement
Training and coordination with security agencies
Intelligence sharing and early warning systems
Empowering local leaders to address corruption that enables banditry

Edochie’s post underscores the frustration of many Nigerians, who feel that decisive action is needed to stop kidnappings and terrorist attacks. Her perspective reminds both leaders and citizens that security cannot rely solely on external forces; community involvement is crucial — but it must be structured, lawful, and safe.

The challenge remains: how can communities take ownership of their security without inadvertently creating more danger? Thoughtful planning and collaboration with authorities may hold the key to ending the reign of terror while protecting lives and livelihoods.