calls for stronger diplomacy, says Nigeria’s sovereignty under siege
By Anthony Isibor
HENRY Seriake Dickson, former Bayelsa State Governor and Senator representing Bayelsa West, has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to collaborate with the United States and other international allies to finally bring an end to terrorism in Nigeria.
In a strongly worded statement, Dickson warned that the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity were under serious threat from armed groups that have killed thousands of Nigerians in the past decade and a half.
“Nigeria’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and national institutions must be respected by all,” he said. “At the same time, I fully support any collaborative action aimed at eradicating the murderous bands of terrorists who have wantonly slaughtered thousands of our countrymen and women — Christians, Muslims, and people of other faiths alike.”
The senator lamented that for nearly 15 years, jihadist groups such as Boko Haram, ISWAP, ISIS, al-Qaeda affiliates, and newer groups like Lakurawa and Wulowulo have unleashed unimaginable violence, beginning from Borno State and spreading across the northeast and beyond.
He recounted how schools, churches, mosques, and even palaces have been attacked, while students and traditional rulers have fallen victim to abductions and killings. Dickson recalled the painful memories of the Chibok and Dapchi girls’ abductions, adding that many of the victims — including Leah Sharibu — remain unaccounted for.
“These terrorists have introduced suicide bombing, destroyed schools, and shattered families. In some areas of Borno, Zamfara, and Katsina, they still control territories, impose taxes on locals, and operate as though they are the legitimate authorities,” he said.
Describing the situation as a “direct affront to Nigeria’s sovereignty,” Dickson said it was time for the government to seek effective global partnerships.
“President Trump’s statement is a wake-up call to action. If the Nigerian government is unable to address this issue effectively, then it must collaborate with those who can help us flush out these terrorists,” he declared.
He revealed that the Senate has frequently discussed the worsening insecurity, holding moments of silence for victims and proposing several policy interventions, including a National Security Summit and a diplomatic engagement with Washington D.C.
According to Dickson, the spread of terrorism and banditry into states once considered safe — including Sokoto, Niger, Taraba, and even Kwara — underscores the urgency of a coordinated response. He also cited the prolonged violence in Benue, Plateau, and Southern Kaduna, which has displaced thousands of indigenous communities.
The former governor blamed years of weak leadership and lack of accountability for the continued carnage. He noted that under the Buhari administration, perceptions of bias in security appointments and state complicity worsened public distrust.
“The killings have gone on for too long and government and security forces have been overwhelmed. We need help! No nation can confront terrorism in isolation,” Dickson stressed.
He urged President Tinubu to strengthen diplomatic ties, especially with neighbouring countries, whose cooperation, he said, would be vital in cutting off terrorist networks and cross-border movements.
Dickson, who serves as Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, also decried Nigeria’s failure to appoint ambassadors for over two years, saying the vacuum has weakened the country’s global engagement at a time it needs allies most.
“This anomaly should be corrected as soon as possible to enable our country maximise its diplomatic resources and options,” he said, ending his statement with a solemn appeal: “May God help Nigeria.”
