Insecurity: ACF Calls for Public Awareness on Self-Defense Measures

• The Arewa Consultative Forum emphasized educating Northerners on self-defense to combat escalating insecurity from bandits, terrorists, and kidnappers
• Chairman Mamman Mike Osuman urged collective action among leaders to address regional threats and promote economic empowerment and justice

The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has emphasized the need to educate Northerners on self-defense in response to the region’s escalating insecurity.

Speaking at the ACF National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting on Wednesday, the forum’s Chairman, Mamman Mike Osuman (SAN), urged for urgent collective action to address the increasing threats of attacks, kidnappings, and killings plaguing the North.

Osuman described the insecurity in the region as a national crisis requiring immediate attention. He called on leaders, stakeholders, and citizens to collaborate in finding lasting solutions, stating, “The North is under siege from bandits, terrorists, and kidnappers. We must unite to confront these challenges and secure a safer future for all.”

The chairman urged governors, legislators, and traditional leaders to work together to combat the region’s problems. He also stressed the importance of addressing internal crimes committed by locals and tackling illegal mining activities by both foreign and local operators.

“There is an urgent need for public awareness campaigns to educate our people on self-defense and community preservation,” Osuman said. “We must create localized strategies to counter these issues effectively.”

Osuman applauded the recently established League of Northern Democrats, led by Shekarau and convened by elder statesman Dr. Umar Ardo.

The group, comprising former governors, senators, and other Northern elites, aligns with the ACF’s objectives of addressing the region’s challenges.

“The League of Northern Democrats reflects the shared commitment of Northern stakeholders to address these critical issues,” he said, while urging a focus on immediate, actionable solutions instead of long-term political strategies.

Osuman highlighted economic empowerment, education, skills development, infrastructure improvement, and justice as key areas for revitalizing the North.

He stressed the importance of inclusive leadership and collective action to overcome the insecurity and promote prosperity.

“The ACF remains committed to fostering unity and ensuring that the region moves forward in addressing these existential threats,” he concluded.