The Northern Elders Forum (NEF) has issued a pressing appeal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, urging him to declare a state of emergency in the northern states due to the alarming surge in insecurity. This call to action comes in the wake of a devastating ambush in Niger State's Mariga Local Government Area, where over 20 Nigerian soldiers lost their lives in a brazen attack.
*A Dire Security Situation*
The NEF described the attack as a stark illustration of the near-total collapse of security structures in the North. According to Professor Abubakar Jiddere, the group's spokesperson, the ambush was meticulously planned and coordinated, indicating a high level of organization among the attackers. The elders believe that the northern region has effectively turned into a war zone, with residents living in constant fear of attacks, kidnappings, and violence.
*The Humanitarian Crisis*
The insecurity in the North has reached a boiling point, with communities torn apart by violence and fear. The recent attack on Nigerian soldiers is just one example of the many incidents that have plagued the region. The NEF emphasized that the situation demands immediate attention and action from the federal government to protect its citizens and restore peace.
*A Call to Action*
The NEF has called on the federal government to take decisive and thorough military action to restore law and order in the North. They also recommend a comprehensive overhaul of the existing security framework, which they believe has failed to protect civilians and security forces. The elders urge President Tinubu to prioritize the protection of citizens, particularly in the North, where violence, kidnappings, and massacres continue to claim lives.
*Restructuring Security Framework*
The NEF's call for a restructuring of the security framework is aimed at addressing the root causes of the insecurity in the North. They believe that the current system has failed to effectively respond to the complex threats facing the region. By revamping the security architecture, the government can better equip itself to tackle the menace of terrorism and banditry.
*A Declaration of War*
The NEF emphasized that the recent attack is not just an isolated incident but a declaration of war against the Nigerian state. They warned that unless the federal government confronts the underlying causes and backers of terrorism with firm measures, the northern region will remain trapped in turmoil. As Professor Jiddere stated, "This is not just an attack, it is a declaration of war against the Nigerian state, and the state is losing."
*The Way Forward*
The NEF's appeal to President Tinubu is a call to action that requires immediate attention. The federal government must take bold steps to address the insecurity in the North and protect its citizens. By declaring a state of emergency and restructuring the security framework, the government can begin to restore peace and stability to the region. The time for action is now, and the NEF's call should not be taken lightly.
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