Nollywood veteran Rita Edochie has issued a strong call. She urged traditional rulers and community leaders nationwide to act swiftly. Their urgent task is to protect citizens from terrorists and kidnappers. These criminals continue to plague many rural communities across Nigeria.
Edochie noted that Nnamdi Kanu previously warned about armed groups. He spoke of their spread across the country. However, these early warnings, she claimed, were not heeded.
The Need for Local Action
The actress emphasized a critical shift. Communities, she believes, can no longer depend solely on government intervention. The security situation, she argued, now demands proactive local action.
She implored traditional and local leaders. They should identify strong young men within their communities. Leaders must then provide the necessary support. This will enable youths to reclaim forests and farmlands. Armed criminals currently occupy these vital areas.
Edochie stated that communities can effectively curb kidnappings. This is possible if youths are well-prepared. They must be ready and equipped to defend their ancestral lands.
Understanding the Threat
She explained why terrorists operate with such freedom. They are heavily armed, she noted. Furthermore, she suggested they once enjoyed protection from corrupt officials.
Local youths, she highlighted, know their environment intimately. This understanding surpasses that of the attackers. They can protect their people effectively. This requires leaders to cease making compromises with criminal elements.
A Stern Warning
Edochie issued a stern warning to all communities. If they fail to act now, the danger will escalate. It will eventually reach their doorsteps, she cautioned.
In her direct appeal, Rita Edochie declared: “Let every community properly arm their youths… ask them to get into their bushes and forests and see these kidnappings stop overnight.”
She further warned, “If you don’t start this now, it’s coming to your doorsteps.”
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