It also noted that the rampant and brazen activities of terrorists “without any hindrance, even in the presence of security personnel, indicate a deeply rooted problem of corruption within the defense system”
The Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) on Tuesday called on the Nigerian government and the Zamfara State government to exercise restraint, face security challenges and ensure the safe return of abducted university students.
It also noted that the rampant and brazen activities of terrorists “without any hindrance, even in the presence of security personnel, indicate a deeply rooted problem of corruption within the defense system”
The Coalition made this known on Tuesday when it stormed Gusau on a mission to facilitate synergy and cooperation between the Zamfara government and the federal authorities for effective coordination of efforts to end the rampaging insecurity in the state and in the entire North.
While addressing Zamfara State government officials led by the Chief of Staff to the governor, CNG's spokesperson Abdul-Azeez Suleiman said the situation in Zamfara State had become increasingly alarming with the evident rift between the federal government and the Zamfara State government, resulting in a repetitive cycle of blame and counter-blame between the two parties.
According to him, the situation has thrown the population into further confusion with the potential of exacerbating the security challenges in the state.
The organisation said it is disheartening to see that instead of working collaboratively to address the security issues, both sides have resorted to pointing fingers at each other. It said the blame game only serves to distract from finding effective solutions and undermines the trust and confidence that the people of Zamfara desperately need from their leaders.
He said< “The CNG was in Gusau for a solemn purpose – to express heartfelt condolences to the government and the people of Zamfara State following the recent security breach that shook the Gusau University campus.
“This unfortunate incident involved the brutal encroachment on the campus premises and the subsequent abduction of innocent female students by heartless bandits. The general and pervasive insecurity being experienced in Zamfara and across the Northern region are cross-regional issues that affect every one of us, regardless of where we live or come from.
“For this reason, the problem must be confronted collectively with the entire will and resolve of the various levels of government behind the effort.
“Failure to do so will indubitably mean that every effort made in isolation will defeat all our endeavours, and render the task more difficult and futile.
"We regret to say, until that time when jointly developed and implemented comprehensive security strategies, enhanced intelligence sharing, and deployment of adequate resources to tackle the root causes of the insecurity, the dark clouds hanging over the land would only grow darker.”
Expressing sympathy and prayers to the families affected by the recent abduction of female students of the Federal University Gusau, CNG extended its deepest condolences to the families “currently enduring unimaginable pain and uncertainty as their loved ones remain in the hands of their captors”.
The organisation further said, “We cannot fathom the hardships and fear that these young girls are experiencing, and it is our hope that they will be returned swiftly, alive, unharmed, and reunited with their families.
“The abduction at the Gusau University campus has struck at the heart of our educational institutions, places that should serve as sanctuaries for learning and growth. Such incidents not only disrupt the education of our youth but also instill fear and uncertainty among parents, students, and the wider community
“The CNG views this despicable act as an assault on the very fabric of our society. Our educational institutions should be safe havens for learning and personal growth, free from the shadow of violence and terror. It is deeply disturbing and disheartening to witness the violation of such sanctuaries, where the promise of a better future is nurtured. It is high time we acknowledge the gravity of this situation and take decisive action.
“CNG urges the Federal and state governments to prioritize the welfare and well-being of students and staff in our educational institutions.
“Adequate security measures must be put in place to safeguard these institutions, and the necessary resources allocated to ensure their effectiveness.
"Government must also work to provide students with the assurance of their safety by creating an environment conducive to learning. The ongoing instability has led to numerous challenges, including threats from insurgent groups, terrorist attacks, and communal clashes.
"This not only poses a threat to the lives and properties of the residents but also hampers developmental efforts and undermines the overall peace and stability of the nation.
“We regret to note that the rampant and brazen activities of these criminals occurring without any hindrance, even in the presence of security personnel, indicate a deeply rooted problem of corruption within the defense system.
“It is therefore crucial to understand that the security challenges in Zamfara State require a unified and coordinated effort from both the Federal Government and the Zamfara State government.
"We therefore sound a loud clarion call on the Federal and the Zamfara State governments to exercise restraint and the maturity expected in leaders in order to face the security challenges head-on and ensure the safe return of the abducted students.
"We call on the government, security agencies, and relevant stakeholders to collaborate effectively in developing and implementing strategies that will bring an end to this cycle of violence. It is imperative to prioritize the protection of lives and property, ensuring that our citizens can go about their daily lives without fear and apprehension.
"It is therefore necessary for the Zamfara state government to work closely with federal agencies responsible for security matters, such as the police, military, and intelligence agencies. All stakeholders should prioritize the overall safety and well-being of the people of Zamfara State above any political differences.”