SECURITY SITUATION IN NORTHCENTRAL NIGERIA: A CLARION CALL TO ACT

To be released
Abuja
01.08.23

CLEEN Foundation is deeply concerned about the recent security challenges in the Northcentral region and the entire country at large. In recent months, the region has experienced a troubling rise in security incidents, including but not limited to acts of terrorism, banditry, communal clashes, and kidnapping occasioned by the activities of treasure hunters. These events have caused significant loss of life, property, and have created an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty among the local population. As an organization committed to public safety, security, stability, and the protection of human rights, we strongly condemn these heinous acts of violence. The loss of innocent lives, the destruction of communities, and the displacement of families are unacceptable and must be addressed urgently. We call upon all Government, relevant security agencies and all stakeholders to prioritize the security situation in the Northcentral region and collaborate on comprehensive strategies to restore peace and stability. This requires a multifaceted approach, including intelligence-led operations, community engagement, and addressing the root causes of the conflicts.

The region is in dire straits. We are being pushed to the edge of a precipitous fall by just a handful of fugitives. Choices have consequences, and the choices made over the last several decades by successive generations of the ruling class over the natural resources deposit have imposed this consequence of an existential threat on all of us, and there should be a reckoning for this in the interest of accountability and social justice. From where we are at now, an adequate and thorough tackling of this crisis with a view to resolving it in a manner that builds peace, reinforces inter-communal confidence and trust, and augurs well for nation building and holistic human centred national development will require working from, and being guided by the following sets of precepts and principles.

Furthermore, we urge the government to ensure that all perpetrators of violence are brought to justice. Accountability for these crimes is crucial in deterring future acts of violence and promoting a sense of justice and reconciliation among affected communities. At the same time, we implore community leaders, civil society organizations, and citizens in the region to work together in fostering peaceful coexistence and promoting dialogue as a means to address grievances and resolve conflicts.

CLEEN Foundation remains committed to supporting efforts that promote peace, security, and human rights in Nigeria. We stand in solidarity with the people of the Northcentral region and the Nation at large during this challenging time and pledge our support to finding lasting solutions to the security crisis.

Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by these senseless acts of violence. Together, we can create a safer and more prosperous future for all Nigerians.

Signed:

Gad Peter
Executive Director
CLEEN Foundation