Fatima Aliyu,  kaduna

The Peace and Violent Extremism Prevention (PAVE) Network has called for the establishment of State Police and the implementation of Local Government autonomy to address insecurity in Nigeria. 

In a statement issued in Abuja, the network expressed concern over the rising incidents of violent extremism, abductions, killings, and organized criminal activities across the country, warning that the situation has created fear and uncertainty among citizens. 

PAVE condemned attacks on communities, schools, and other critical infrastructure, stressing that every Nigerian life matters and that every child abducted represents a national tragedy.

The network also decried the politicization of insecurity, urging political leaders to set aside partisan interests and work together to protect lives and communities.

According to PAVE, sustainable security cannot be achieved through military operations alone but requires improved governance, justice, development, and community participation.

The group advocated the decentralization of policing powers and the establishment of State Police with adequate safeguards against abuse.

It further urged the Federal Government to implement genuine Local Government autonomy, noting that councils are strategically positioned to support local security coordination, early warning systems, peacebuilding, and community development.

PAVE also called for stronger intelligence sharing, proactive security responses, protection of vulnerable communities, and enhanced regional cooperation across the Sahel to tackle cross-border criminality and violent extremism.

The network appealed to governments at all levels, security institutions, political parties, traditional and religious leaders, civil society groups, and citizens to unite and take urgent steps to tackle insecurity and organized criminalities