Nigeria, July 16 -- Growing up in Ijebu-Ode, my responsibility included joining other children in protecting respective family hens and their chicks from predators. A practical proverbial guide directed our efforts: one must first drive away the eagle before counting the chicks. This meant being prepared with stones and catapults to intervene when the hens became overwhelmed by an eagle circling above. If we were vigilant and prepared, the predator stood no chance.

The Oriire kidnap of children and teachers in Oyo State is on my mind. It was great that our security forces, as should be expected in a normal country, got involved and after 56 days rescued the victims. I join Nigerians in appreciating the stellar efforts of the security for...