Amid growing unrest linked to chieftaincy and land disputes, National Security Coordinator DCOP Abdul Razak Osman has issued a stern warning about criminals taking advantage of these conflicts.
Speaking to security personnel deployed to Nkwanta to restore calm, DCOP Osman emphasized the critical need for a unified and strategic response from security agencies to address the escalating situation.
“In just a couple of weeks, chieftaincy and land issues have been giving us a lot of trouble. And the security on an individual basis will not be able to control it. And so for this particular era, we are looking for some specialised form of cooperation between the various security agencies”.
DCOP Abdul Razak Osman, National Security Coordinator
The situation in Nkwanta has deteriorated, with incidents of violence increasing, including attacks on security vehicles, private property, and residences.
DCOP Osman described these acts as blatant criminal behavior, saying, “Shooting at security vehicles, private cars, or even attacking people in their homes to kill them is an outright crime, and we must respond decisively.”
Urgent Need for Proactive Measures
The National Security Coordinator stressed the importance of taking preventative actions to address the violence.
“I want to see a more proactive approach in managing these disputes. Disagreements must be resolved through proper channels in a peaceful manner. We are ready to support such efforts,” he stated. He also made it clear that the government would not tolerate violence that puts the lives of innocent citizens at risk.
When addressing the handling of suspects, DCOP Osman called for thorough and prompt investigations to ensure justice. “The investigations must be precise so that we get to the root of the matter and send a strong message to deter others,” he explained.
Referring to recent instances where armed groups retaliated against security forces, he added, “The fact that they retaliated against our officers means we must pursue them. I want those individuals arrested, no matter the cost.”
Plans for Strengthened Security
DCOP Osman suggested the possibility of setting up a permanent security presence in the area while recognizing the need to balance logistics and democratic principles.
“We’ll evaluate the feasibility of establishing a regular security camp here. In democratic governance, we don’t want to appear overly militarized, but in this case, it’s necessary to ensure people feel secure and can carry out their daily lives freely.”
DCOP Abdul Razak Osman, National Security Coordinator
In response to concerns about the financial strain on the local assembly for hosting security personnel, DCOP Osman assured that the national security apparatus would cover these expenses. He also pledged to address any previous costs incurred by the assembly.
DCOP Osman’s resolute approach underscored the government’s determination to restore order and address the root causes of these disputes.
His hands-on leadership, including his readiness to work with security personnel on the ground, reflects a heightened sense of urgency to protect citizens and bring stability to conflict-prone areas like Nkwanta.
The National Security Coordinator’s reassurances offer hope to residents seeking peace, however, as DCOP Osman earlier pointed out the success of these efforts hinges on continued collaboration, meticulous investigations, and decisive action against those responsible for the violence.
