- He pointed out the presence of Yoruba individuals in Kaduna’s civil service, holding significant political positions, as evidence of Kaduna State’s contribution to the unity of Nigeria
The Youth Wing of the Southern Kaduna Peoples Union has strongly criticized the arrest of four Kaduna-origin youths residing in Lagos who were seeking to join the Nigerian Army.
Isaac John, the National Coordinator of the union, emphasized the clear definition of Nigerian citizenship in the constitution and highlighted that the Nigerian military has specific requirements for enlistment, none of which relate to linguistic or tribal factors like the ability to speak Yoruba.
He pointed out the presence of Yoruba individuals in Kaduna’s civil service, holding significant political positions, as evidence of Kaduna State’s contribution to the unity of Nigeria.
“It is with great concern that the Southern Kaduna Youths have observed a distressing video featuring four youths originally from Kaduna State, currently residing in Lagos.
“These individuals, earnestly seeking enlistment in the Nigerian Army, faced unwarranted humiliation, denial, and even arrest during the state screening process as of the time of composing this statement.
“The reasons, as portrayed in the video, revolve around their inability to speak the Yoruba language and their non-citizenship status in Lagos, notwithstanding their longstanding domicile in the state.”
“In the light of these events, we respectfully urge the Chief of Army Staff and the Chief of Defence Staff to promptly and urgently investigate this matter.
“We appeal for the immediate release of these young men and their fair participation in the enlistment exercise, aligning with the principles afforded to every Nigerian citizen, as the unity of our nation transcends ethnic considerations.