Former Kaduna Central senator, Shehu Sani, has urged Nigerians to take responsibility for tackling banditry and terrorism, insisting that the country cannot rely on foreign powers for its liberation from insecurity.

Speaking on Thursday in Abuja at the public presentation of his books, The Councillor and The Perilous Path to Europe, the ex-lawmaker said only a united and determined citizenry, supported by effective state institutions, can defeat criminal elements terrorising the nation.

According to him, the belief that external forces would rescue Nigeria from bandits and insurgents is misplaced. “We should not expect any foreign power to come and free us from these bandits. We must do it ourselves,” Sani stated.

He noted that Nigeria had historically contributed to peacekeeping efforts in other countries and therefore possesses the capacity to address its own security challenges. He added that even the United States, often seen as a global power, struggles with its internal problems.

Sani stressed that enlightenment, national unity and strong political will remain critical tools in overcoming insecurity. He called on citizens to support lawful efforts aimed at reclaiming communities from criminals who, he said, behave as though they own the country.

The former senator maintained that defeating banditry requires collective action rather than dependence on external intervention, warning that the future of the nation rests in the hands of its people.