By Bilesanmi Abayomi
A resurfaced video of former Kosofe Federal Constituency lawmaker, Hon. Rotimi Agunsoye, expressing frustration over Nigeria’s worsening insecurity has reignited public debate, drawing sharp reactions from citizens, religious leaders, and community advocates.
Agunsoye, who represented Kosofe in the House of Representatives from 2015 to 2019, had condemned the persistent rise in violence, killings, and abductions, accusing authorities of failing to act decisively. Years later, many Nigerians say his warnings have only become more urgent as insecurity continues to escalate nationwide with little sign of effective intervention.
Public Reaction
The resurfaced clip stirred a flood of commentary, reflecting growing fear, anger, and disillusionment:
Ben Okocha, a prominent Kosofe community commentator, said “Nigeria is sitting on a keg of gunpowder,” citing increasing terrorist attacks and the recent killing of a serving military general. He questioned the government’s capacity to safeguard citizens, insisting that only “strong political will” and “a fire-for-fire approach” can prevent national collapse.
Moses Olatoye Orimoloye of CAN Lagos criticised religious bodies for what he described as complacency. He questioned the silence of Christian associations and pastors who enjoy personal security while congregants remain exposed. He even suggested that churches and mosques should temporarily shut down if religious institutions cannot offer moral leadership.
Àare Fatoki Ayobode Kehinde of Ikosi-Isheri LCDA emphasised prayers and divine intervention, noting that “at the right time, God will raise His sword for judgment,” though he acknowledged the dire reality on the ground.
Taiwo Lasisi, President of the Ta’awun Humanitarian Forum, Lagos, echoed late Head of State Gen. Sani Abacha’s famous remark that if an insurgency persists beyond 24 hours, the government should be held responsible. He said Agunsoye’s remarks highlight longstanding failures in leadership and national security management.
A Warning That Still Resonates
Hon. Agunsoye’s emotional outburst, once dismissed by some as ordinary political rhetoric, is now being revisited as a stark reflection of Nigeria’s deepening security crisis. For many Nigerians, the message remains unchanged: insecurity will persist unless leaders demonstrate decisive political will, take coordinated action, and citizens demand accountability.
The renewed discourse shows how profoundly insecurity has shaped national conversations, and how the warnings issued years ago continue to echo today.