The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF), Northern Awareness Network (NAN), and North West Solidarity Forum (NWSF) have expressed strong support for the strategic military deployment proposed by Minister of State for Defence, Bello Mohammed Matawalle, aimed at relocating military assets to Sokoto State.
The groups believe that the initiative will bolster joint military operations against banditry in Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina, and Kebbi States, marking a crucial step in addressing the escalating security challenges in northern Nigeria.
In a joint statement, AYCF President General, Yerima Shettima, NAN chairman Salihu Suleiman, and NWSF Spokesperson Tanimu Danlawal emphasised that the ongoing violence, criminality, and insurgency pose severe threats to the safety and socio-economic stability of the region.
They stressed the urgent need for decisive action, asserting that the increased military presence in Sokoto state is essential for restoring peace and order, which are vital for fostering development and prosperity in northern Nigeria.
“Recognising the challenges posed by persistent violence and crime, the AYCF acknowledges that effective implementation of this military strategy is essential for restoring safety and security. The organization highlights its unwavering support for measures that prioritize the protection of citizens and the stability of communities.
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“We call on the federal government to arrest immediately any such voices, whether in the guise of misinformation, dissent, or undue skepticism and prosecute them appropriately,” they stated, emphasizing that any attempts to obstruct national security efforts cannot be tolerated.
Emphasizing the importance of a coordinated response to threats against national security, the northern groups underscored that any attempts to obstruct these efforts will not be tolerated.
They urged both governmental and non-governmental organizations to join forces in promoting transparent and effective dialogue to deter divisive narratives and protect initiatives aimed at societal growth and safety.
We are committed to working alongside government officials, security agencies, and local communities to ensure a safe and secure future for all citizens.
They believe that through collaboration and shared commitment, the region can overcome adversities and pave the way for sustainable development, the statements stressed.
The groups reiterated their dedication to working collaboratively with governmental and non-governmental stakeholders to foster a safer Nigeria.
The organization encourages citizens to remain vigilant and supportive of initiatives that serve the greater good of the nation.
The call for enhanced military engagement in the North must be accompanied by proactive measures to foster public trust the groups emphasized while advocating for an inclusive approach where the government transparently communicates the objectives, coordinates dialogues with local stakeholders, and actively addresses community concerns.
They also commended the minister’s commitment to allocate the necessary resources for the eradication of notorious bandit leader Bello Turji and his criminal gang.
The action followed the alarming dissemination of videos showing a Nigerian military armoured vehicle immobilized in a waterlogged region of Kwashabawa, Zurmi Local Government Area of Zamfara State.