Akwa Ibom Must Unite Against Terror, Says CHRAN Boss

Ifiok Itiaba, Uyo

Otuekong Franklin Isong addressing the public 

Executive Director of Center for Human Rights and Accountability Network (CHRAN), Otuekong Franklin Isong, has described terrorism as a common enemy that recognises neither class nor status, calling on Akwa Ibom to unite against insecurity and support security agencies through timely information sharing.

Isong stated this on Saturday June 20, 2026 in Uyo when he led members of CHRAN, Civil Society Organisations, Students Leaders, residents and indigenes in an advocacy against Terror, with the theme, "Akwa Ibom Unites Against Terror," amidst growing concerns over rising insecurity across the country.

Addressing participants, Otuekong Isong stressed that the campaign against the scourge would be sustained, urging citizens to be vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities to security agencies, noting that terrorism had brought untold sorrow, pain and losses to families across religious and ethnic divides.

"If you don't see and report crime to security agencies, it could affect you when it happens. That is why Akwa Ibom must unite against terror. When you see something, say something," Isong said, while condemning those sponsoring acts of terrorism.

Barriste Clifford Thomas addressing the public 

Also speaking, Barrister Clifford Thomas reminded Nigerians that everyone had become victims of insecurity, including security personnel, women and children, and although Akwa Ibom remains relatively peaceful, no part of the country should consider itself immune from the threats that have devastated communities in other regions, underscoring the need for collective efforts to prevent the spread of violence.

Executive Director of Vital Partners for Development, Dr Victor David, in an advocacy presentation titled "The Masquerade Masked with Terror," lamented the devastating impact of insecurity on farming, education, commerce and the nation's collective hope, noting that terrorism had transformed fertile farmlands into scenes of fear and uncertainty, disrupted learning and economic activities, and subjected countless families to pain and displacement.

Dr Victor David of Vital Partners for development 

David, however, maintained that terror would not triumph over the resilience of Nigerians, insisting that the country remained stronger than fear, while calling on citizens, traditional institutions, religious bodies, the media, civil society organisations and government at all levels to work together to restore peace, protect democratic values and guarantee a secure future for all.

Describing terrorism as an unwanted visitor, Dr Victor David urged Nigerians to rise above divisions and unite against the menace, while Barrister Ubiere called on citizens to reject violence and embrace peaceful coexistence.

The campaign ended with participants reaffirming their commitment to a safer Nigeria and declaring that the fight against insecurity requires the collective responsibility of every citizen.