The Alliance for Economic Research and Ethics Ltd/Gte has called for urgent national action, noting “Nigeria stands at a crossroads” as insecurity, corruption, and the misuse of religion continue to threaten the country’s stability.
In a statement titled ‘A Call to Action: Rebuilding Nigeria’s Future Through Ethics and Unity’, the organisation said the country is “a nation blessed with immense potential” but is “hindered by a crisis of ethics, fueled by insecurity, corruption, and the misuse of religion to perpetrate violence.”
The group said, “Banditry, insurgency, and kidnappings have left communities shattered, while distrust in institutions deepens. We cannot build a prosperous future in the midst of fire.”
According to the organisation, “Nigeria’s challenges are not as a result of faith, but stem from failure of responsibilities. We have allowed greed, division, and impunity to thrive, while our places of worship, meant to be sanctuaries of peace, are overshadowed by the cries of the vulnerable. Enough is enough.”
The Alliance called for action across all sectors, beginning with government, urging the Federal and state governments to “enforce laws without fear or favour,” “prosecute perpetrators of violence, corruption, and hate speech,” and “strengthen security infrastructure” by equipping troops, supporting state police, and enhancing community policing.
It also urged authorities to “invest in education and jobs” and to “promote transparency” by publishing budgets and ensuring accountability, including efforts to “tackle corruption in religious institutions.”
For religious leaders, the organisation asked them to “preach peace, not division,” “reject extremist narratives,” and “lead by example” through humility and service to the vulnerable.
To citizens, it urged Nigerians to “demand accountability,” “reject corruption,” and “promote unity” across ethnic and religious lines.
Politicians were advised to “put nation above self,” “end political violence,” and “stop arming militias,” while supporting reforms to address root causes of insecurity such as injustice and unemployment.
On the security forces, the statement said, must “protect with integrity,” “uphold human rights,” avoid extrajudicial actions, and “remain neutral, professional, and committed to safeguarding all Nigerians.”
The organisation added: “Faith without works is empty; governance without accountability is tyranny; security without justice is oppression.”
The Alliance also listed recommendations to the government, including the call to “establish a National Ethics Commission,” “launch a nationwide interfaith peace initiative,” “increase funding for education, healthcare, and job creation in vulnerable regions,” “ensure swift justice for crimes linked to terrorism and corruption,” and “encourage community-led peacebuilding and reporting mechanisms.”
While warning that “we must act now, before the fire consumes us,” the organisation stressed that “Nigeria is not beyond repair. Let us choose unity, transparency, and compassion. Together, we can turn the tide.”
