Retired DSS Director and security expert, Mr Dennis Amachree, joined Breakfast Central on NewsCentral TV to provide insight into the emergence of a new sect, ACHAD Life Mission International, uncovered by intelligence services in Kaduna State.
He expressed concern over the rise of ACHAD Life Mission International, questioning why the authorities revealed its existence without making arrests or gathering substantial evidence. According to Mr Amachree, this approach undermines effective investigations and reflects broader lapses in operational procedures.
Mr Amachree also shed light on Nigeria’s grim status as a hotspot for human trafficking and organ harvesting. He recounted shocking recent cases, including one in Ilorin where a man was caught transporting the dismembered remains of his girlfriend. The incident illustrates two troubling phenomena: the use of human parts for rituals and the burgeoning market for organ trafficking.
“There have been whispers of markets in the southwest where human parts are traded for ritual purposes or traditional medicine,” Mr Amachree stated. “These claims demand immediate and thorough investigation by the DSS, police, and other agencies. The sanctity of human life must be upheld.”
Calls for a State of Emergency
The emergence of new sects, the resurgence of human trafficking, and ongoing insurgent attacks have reignited calls for the federal government to declare a state of emergency. Mr Amachree emphasised that such a declaration could bring much-needed focus and coordination to the fight against insecurity.
“Freedom of religion is a fundamental right in Nigeria, but it is not absolute. Many insurgent groups start under the guise of religion, quietly integrating into communities before becoming violent. Strict regulations requiring all religious organisations to register and disclose their activities are essential to prevent exploitation and abuse,” Mr Amachree noted.
He also highlighted the “war economy” as a key obstacle to progress. With insurgencies persisting for over 15 years, corruption within the military and government has diverted resources meant for security. “If an insurgency lasts more than 24 hours, someone, somewhere, is benefitting from it,” he said, quoting former Head of State Sani Abacha.
The Role of Leadership and Security Agencies
The Tinubu administration, now in its second year, faces mounting pressure to prioritise security. The loss of 147 lives in a single incident raises serious questions about the government’s commitment to protecting its citizens. Mr Amachree stressed the need for the President to summon the heads of security agencies to address key issues:
- Are funds being mismanaged or diverted?
- Are there shortages of ammunition or essential resources?
- Why are splinter groups and new sects like ACHAD emerging unchecked?
Mr Amachree acknowledged some improvements, such as better coordination between security agencies and the introduction of new technologies, including Artificial Intelligence, in intelligence gathering. However, he cautioned against redundancy and overlapping roles, calling for a unified approach to security operations.
A Glimmer of Hope?
Despite the daunting challenges, Mr Amachree expressed hope that progress could be made with the right leadership and policies. He emphasised the importance of accountability, stating that arrests, prosecutions, and convictions must become the norm to deter future atrocities.
The emergence of ACHAD Life Mission International and the mass burial of 147 victims are stark reminders of Nigeria’s precarious security situation. With the right focus and urgency, there is still time for the Tinubu administration to fulfil its promise of a secure Nigeria by 2027. As Mr Amachree aptly concluded, “Every Nigerian life matters—it is not about numbers. A single loss is too many.”
Call to Action:
The Nigerian government must act decisively to:
- Investigate and dismantle human trafficking and organ harvesting networks.
- Regulate religious organisations to prevent exploitation.
- Enhance coordination among security agencies.
- Prioritise accountability and transparency in the use of security funds.
Only through a unified and strategic approach can Nigeria overcome these challenges and build a safer, more secure future for all.
