The Arewa Consultative Forum, (ACF), has called for increased public awareness on the importance of self-defence in the face of rising insecurity in northern Nigeria.
Speaking during the National Executive Committee meeting held yesterday, ACF Chairman, Mamman Mike Osuman (SAN), highlighted the alarming rate of attacks, kidnappings, and killings in the region. According to the ACF, there is a need for public awareness to educate the people on the importance of self-defence in the North due to the prevailing insecurity.
The chairman highlighted the alarming rate of attacks, kidnappings and killings in the region, stressing that these incidents had become too common. He emphasised that the North’s security challenges are not only a regional concern but also a national issue that requires immediate attention.
Osuman warned that the worsening insecurity served as a clarion call to action saying, “It is imperative for leaders, stakeholders, and citizens to come together to address the region’s challenges and ensure a safer, more prosperous future for all.
“The North is currently under siege from various threats, including bandits, terrorists, kidnappers, and unjust treatment. We must come together to address these challenges.
The ACF chairman also lauded the formation of the Shekarau-led League of Northern Democrats convened by an elder statesman, Dr. Umar Ar?o, which was recently launched in a meeting attended by key northern elites in Abuja. However, he stressed the need for inward reflection and immediate action, rather than focusing solely on long-term political solutions.
The chairman emphasised the importance of collective action, inclusive leadership, and collaboration among stakeholders to address the region’s security challenges.
He urged northern leaders, including State governors, legislators, and traditional rulers, to demonstrate unity and take decisive steps to address domestic and environmental challenges. The chairman also stressed the need to tackle internal crimes perpetrated by locals and combat illegal mining activities in the region.
