Mohammed Hayatu-Deen, presidential aspirant of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has announced a tough stance on terrorism and insecurity in Nigeria, pledging life imprisonment for terrorism-related crimes if elected in 2027. In a statement released on Tuesday, Hayatu-Deen emphasized the need for decisive action to restore order, promising to establish a dedicated terrorism court and overhaul intelligence coordination among Nigeria’s security agencies. He argued that insecurity is deeply linked to the country’s economic challenges, warning that unchecked crime undermines food security, trade, and employment.
Hayatu-Deen highlighted how the inability of farmers to access their farmlands directly contributes to rising food prices, while traders facing threats on transportation routes experience increased costs of living. He pointed out that unemployment among youth creates fertile ground for criminal networks to recruit members, creating a dangerous cycle where insecurity breeds poverty and poverty fuels more insecurity. “To break the cycle, Nigeria must restore the authority of the state,” he stated firmly.
He stressed that under his leadership, terrorism charges would carry mandatory life sentences, ending what he described as the era of lenient punishments, secret releases, and cases lost in judicial backlogs. Hayatu-Deen’s proposal reflects growing public frustration over the perceived weakness in Nigeria’s response to terrorism and violent crime. Since the start of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, several states including Plateau and Benue have experienced deadly attacks, resulting in numerous civilian casualties and widespread displacement.
The current administration has repeatedly pledged to address insecurity, but critics argue that progress has been slow and inconsistent. Hayatu-Deen’s plan to strengthen intelligence sharing among security forces aims to close gaps that have allowed terrorist groups to operate with relative impunity. His focus on judicial reform and harsher penalties for terrorism is designed to send a strong message to both perpetrators and the public.
By linking national security to economic stability, Hayatu-Deen positions himself as a candidate who understands the root causes of Nigeria’s challenges. His campaign message appeals to voters seeking concrete solutions rather than promises. As Nigeria prepares for the 2027 general elections, his proposals on terrorism and insecurity may influence voter sentiment, especially in regions most affected by violence. The coming years will test whether such bold declarations translate into actionable policies that bring lasting peace to the nation.
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