Abuja: Secretary-General of the Arewa Consultative Forum, Mr. Murtala Aliyu, has called on the Federal Government to adopt a non-kinetic approach to tackle the ongoing security challenges in northern Nigeria. Aliyu made these remarks during his appearance at the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) Forum on Wednesday.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Aliyu expressed concern over the deteriorating security situation in the northern region, which he described as a former peaceful and pleasant place to reside. Highlighting issues ranging from Boko Haram insurgency in the North-East, farmer-herders conflicts in the North-Central, to banditry in the North-West, he acknowledged the efforts made by various governments to address these challenges. However, he emphasized that more work remains to be done, as the risk of kidnappings and violence persists in several areas.
Aliyu pointed out that insecurity is impacting food production, as farmers face restrictions and unofficial taxes, which contribute to rising food prices. He stressed the need for the government to address these issues, particularly as they affect free movement and community confidence. The socio-cultural group, Arewa Consultative Forum, is actively working to ensure the safety of lives and properties in the region.
Ahead of the 2023 general elections, the forum engaged with the five leading presidential candidates, presenting them with papers outlining urgent actions needed in areas such as security, education, and poverty alleviation. Aliyu underscored the importance of prioritizing these issues, given that the north constitutes a significant portion of the country’s landmass and population.
While acknowledging progress under President Bola Tinubu’s leadership, Aliyu noted that much remains to be done to ensure security in the zone. He mentioned that the forum’s security committee, led by Retired Lt.-Gen. Abdulrahman Danbazau and former Inspector-General of Police Mohammed Abubakar, is preparing a report that will be released to the public soon. The committee has been working on peace and reconciliation efforts among communities, farmers, herders, and addressing religious tensions in the north.