A political strategist, Baba Yusuf, has raised fresh concerns over Nigeria’s deepening insecurity, warning that the growing influence of armed groups could eventually extend into the country’s top legislative institution, the National Assembly of Nigeria.
Speaking during an interview on Arise News, Yusuf described the situation as increasingly dangerous, noting that bandit groups are expanding beyond rural strongholds and gaining footholds in more communities.
He cautioned that if urgent action is not taken, these groups could begin to influence political structures, including the Senate and the House of Representatives.
“Very soon, bandits will find their way into the Senate and House of Representatives, because people are already paying them taxes in parts of the North and are beginning to trust them,” he said.
Yusuf explained that in many affected areas, residents have lost confidence in government protection and now turn to these armed groups for security and dispute resolution, often paying levies in exchange for safety.
According to him, this shift reflects a serious breakdown of trust in state institutions and poses a direct threat to the legitimacy of government authority.
He also highlighted the widening spread of banditry, citing incidents in states such as Niger and Kwara, alongside persistent attacks in Benue and Plateau.
The analyst further warned about the increasing boldness of these groups, alleging that they now confront military personnel, impersonate security operatives, and engage in negotiations with little consequence.
Criticising the government’s response, Yusuf said efforts to tackle the crisis have been slow and overly reliant on rhetoric rather than concrete action.
Describing the situation as an existential threat, he called for immediate and decisive measures to curb the growing insecurity and restore public confidence in the state.