The Northern Elders Forum (NEF), has called for immediate interventions to address the rising wave of violence in parts of Northern Nigeria, including the establishment of peace committees, a comprehensive overhaul of the security architecture.
The forum also raised alarm over the escalating killings in Plateau State, Kaduna State, and Benue State, describing the attacks as brutal, inhumane, and a direct threat to the fabric of society.
In an exclusive chat with The Guardian, the NEF Director of NGOs/CSOs, Abdul-Azeez Suleiman, said the violence reflects deeper societal fractures that require urgent and collective action.
The elders called on security agencies to increase their presence in affected areas through patrols and checkpoints, reassuring citizens that their safety is paramount.
Suleiman said: “The recent brutal killings in Plateau, Kaduna, and Benue states have cast a long shadow of grief and despair. As an elder statesman and a representative of the community, I feel there is an urgent need to address these harrowing events, which have not only claimed lives but also threatened the very fabric of our society.
“The violence we witness is not merely a reflection of individual acts but rather a symptom of deeper societal fissures that demand our collective attention and action. In response to the recent violence, immediate measures should be taken to restore a semblance of peace and security in the affected communities.
“First and foremost, a series of emergency meetings have to be convened among local leaders, traditional rulers, and security agencies to assess the situation and formulate a cohesive response. These meetings should foster dialogue, allowing community members to voice their concerns while also encouraging the sharing of information with security personnel.
“The establishment of peace committees should be prioritized. These committees should comprise respected figures from various ethnic and religious backgrounds, tasked with mediating conflicts and promoting understanding. By engaging in open discussions and community forums, we hope to dispel the atmosphere of fear and mistrust that has taken root.”
Recent attacks underscore the severity of the crisis. In Plateau State, at least 14 persons were killed in Anguwan Rukuba, Jos North Local Government Area. In Kaduna State, a wedding gathering in Kagarko LGA was attacked, leaving 13 dead and several others abducted. These incidents occurred just one week after similar killings in Benue State.
Strengthening Security Presence and Trust
Suleiman noted that security measures alone would not suffice without rebuilding trust between communities and law enforcement.
He emphasized that the crisis is not only a security issue but a national emergency requiring decisive government action.
He added, “To bridge this gap, we propose regular joint training sessions that include community members and security personnel. These sessions would not only enhance the skills of security forces but also educate community members on their rights and responsibilities regarding security matters.
“Establishing a feedback mechanism is crucial. Community members must feel empowered to report incidents and share intelligence without fear of retribution. This can be achieved through anonymous hotlines and community liaison officers who act as intermediaries.
“By fostering an environment of cooperation, we can create a more responsive and accountable security apparatus that reflects the needs and concerns of the communities it serves.
“In the wake of violence, the plight of victims and displaced persons cannot be overlooked. Immediate humanitarian assistance is essential to alleviate their suffering. Local governments, in collaboration with non-governmental organizations (NGOs), should mobilize resources to provide food, shelter, and medical care to those affected.
“Psychosocial support services should also be implemented to help individuals process their trauma and begin the healing journey. In addition to immediate relief, long-term support systems must be established. This includes vocational training programs aimed at empowering displaced persons to rebuild their lives and reintegrate into society.
“By equipping them with skills, we not only restore their dignity but also contribute to the economic resilience of our communities. Initiatives promoting education for children affected by violence are imperative. Investing in the future generation is a crucial step towards breaking the cycle of violence and fostering a culture of peace.
“As we grapple with the aftermath of these attacks, it is essential to analyze the broader context in which they occur. There is a growing concern among community leaders and security analysts that these violent acts may not be isolated incidents but rather coordinated efforts across states.
“To address this, we must advocate for comprehensive intelligence-sharing mechanisms among states. Collaborative efforts among security agencies at the national and state levels are vital in identifying and dismantling networks that perpetuate violence. A unified approach, characterized by shared intelligence and resources, is essential to counteract these threats effectively.”