Nigeria Is Bleeding: The Human Cost of Insecurity -By Amina Muhammad Modu

Nigeria is bleeding, and the blood is not measured only in numbers. It is measured in shattered dreams, broken families, and the tears of parents who do not know whether their children will return home alive.

Across the country, insecurity has become a painful reality. Communities are attacked, innocent citizens are killed, and thousands are displaced from their homes. Fear now walks freely where peace once lived.

The recent abduction of schoolchildren in Borno and Oyo states has once again exposed the devastating human cost of insecurity. On May 15, armed men abducted 42 children from schools in Mussa, Askira-Uba Local Government Area of Borno State. On the same day, 46 pupils and teachers were kidnapped from three schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State. Reports indicate that one teacher was killed during the attack while another was later beheaded in captivity. Weeks later, many of the victims remained in the hands of their captors.

Behind these figures are human beings. Children who should be in classrooms are instead living in fear. Mothers spend sleepless nights waiting for news. Fathers struggle with helplessness as they watch their families suffer. Some victims are toddlers who can barely care for themselves.

Women and girls continue to face the threat of violence and abuse. Farmers abandon their farmlands, businesses shut down, and communities live under constant fear of attack. Education, livelihoods, and hope are all casualties of insecurity.

Nigeria is bleeding from every corner. It is bleeding from the cries of kidnapped children, the grief of widows, the pain of displaced families, and the silence of lives cut short. Until decisive action is taken to protect lives and restore peace, the wounds of insecurity will continue to deepen.