Former senator and Imo State governorship candidate, Athan Achonu, has alleged that political actors and illegal mining interests are responsible for Nigeria’s persistent insecurity, claiming that the crisis is being sustained for political and economic gain.
Speaking during an interview on Arise News, Achonu said insecurity in parts of the country is not accidental but deliberately allowed to persist. He stated, “It’s the governors and the mining cartel. It’s straightforward and simple,” suggesting collusion between political authorities and illicit mining networks.
He recalled probing the activities of Chinese nationals in forested communities during his tenure in the Senate, questioning why foreign nationals were allegedly operating in remote areas alongside criminal groups while residents fled their homes due to kidnappings and violence.
According to him, his findings pointed to a powerful solid minerals cartel with transnational links. “It’s the solid mineral cartel that ruined Congo. They’re here,” he said, alleging that similar exploitative networks are contributing to insecurity in Nigeria’s forest regions.
Achonu also claimed that his personal efforts to strengthen security in Imo State were frustrated despite significant financial commitments. He said he attempted to refurbish police stations in Okigwe and contributed funds, including ₦100 million through Innoson Motors to support the repair of police Armoured Personnel Carriers, but alleged that the initiative was blocked.
He further referenced former military ruler Sani Abacha, saying prolonged insecurity often indicates complicity by those in power. On solutions, Achonu opposed the creation of state police, warning it could be abused by governors, and instead advocated stronger local government autonomy, regional security structures, and the establishment of forest guards to combat insecurity effectively.
Elijah Adeyemi
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