Show Empathy, Take Action’: Hilda Dokubo Blasts Tinubu Over Rising Insecurity

Veteran Nollywood actress, Hilda Dokubo, has criticised President Bola Tinubu over the worsening security situation in the country, urging the Federal Government to demonstrate empathy and take urgent action to protect Nigerians from escalating violence and kidnappings.

Dokubo made the remarks in a video shared on X, formerly known as Twitter, on Thursday, where she expressed concern over the suffering of citizens affected by insecurity across the country.

The actress contrasted the extensive security arrangements enjoyed by government officials with the vulnerability faced by ordinary Nigerians.

“You live a great life. You drive in armoured vehicles escorted on both sides by armed security men. Your office has an armoured door and long security queues before you can be seen,” she said.

According to Dokubo, the heavy security surrounding public office holders has created a disconnect between leaders and the realities confronting citizens.

“But not us ordinary Nigerians and so you don’t feel our pain, and that’s why you can distance yourself from our cry by citing the example of Abraham and Isaac,” she stated.

Reacting to recent comments by the President on the nation’s security challenges, the actress maintained that communities affected by violence require practical interventions rather than symbolic references.

She noted that farmers who have lost access to their farmlands due to attacks and insecurity need immediate protection and support.

“The farmers who lose their farmlands daily do not need your distance. They need empathy and they need action. They need you to be able to protect the land. They need you to stop the insecurity that is plaguing their land,” she said.

Dokubo also highlighted the plight of abducted children, describing reports of kidnap victims as deeply disturbing and questioning the government’s response to their suffering.

“The children who were tied up, did you see that child? The one tied up with stone, tied to his back, his legs and his hands tied together. How can that not move you, Mr President?” she asked.

The actress further lamented the fear and uncertainty experienced by parents whose children have become targets of kidnappers and armed groups.

“May no parent go through this fear, this fear of knowing that they may be the ones to bury their children or worse, not even see the corpse of their children,” she said.

Calling for greater urgency in addressing the crisis, Dokubo warned against becoming desensitised to recurring incidents of insecurity.

“Let all those who say this insecurity has always been here know that one day it might be their turn,” she cautioned.

Her comments add to growing public concerns over insecurity in several parts of the country, where communities continue to grapple with kidnappings, violent attacks, and threats to livelihoods.