Group Warns Citizens to Desist from Insulting Northern Elders, Sue for Peace, Unity

From Abdullahi Idris,Bauchi  

A non-political, non-partisan group under the auspices of Arewa Youth Group of Concerned Nigerians has cautioned Nigerians against insulting any geographical zone, religious or ethnic groups and urged the citizenry to seek the unity, peace and development of the country

Comrade Abubakar Galafi, the Team Leader of the group made the call at a press conference in Bauchi recently. He noted that the group has been overshadowed by disparaging remarks from individuals who should exemplify higher standards.

According to him, “As responsible and patriotic citizens, the group remained committed to preaching peace, unity and development of Nigeria.

He also called on all Nigerians to support governments at all levels in the interest of proper implementation of effective policies aimed at fostering positive change across the divides.

“We therefore, earnestly implore all individuals to desist from making unnecessary comments and insults targeting specific regions, ethnic group,or religious doctrines.

“Failure to adhere to this call for restraint will only serve to fuel further tensions and hostilities among the citizens.

“Recent actions undertaken by Governor Wike, Governor Seyi Makinde, and the G5 collective are not solely directed at Atiku Abubakar, but appear to bear implications for Northern
Nigeria as a whole,” he said.

According to him, It falls upon us to rise to the occasion and confront these challenges head on, demonstrating our preparedness to counter any propaganda aimed at disrupting the Arewa people.

He called on All Progressives Congress (APC) to exercise due diligence in discerning the identities and intentions of these individuals.

“Their overt animosity towards the North, Hausa, and Fulani communities renders them untrustworthy in every respect.

“The PDP must acknowledge that we, as concerned youths, remain dedicated to the advancement of our party and our nation.

“We unequivocally reject any form of hypocrisy from groups or individuals who display disrespect towards our esteemed elders,” Galafi said.

He condemned the baseless comments and insults directed at His Excellency Atiku Abubakar, Waziri Adamawa, despite his dignified silence, graceful and composed nature.

“The man who never replied back, attacked or mention in his speeches any political party candidates name or making an insults throughout the pre- and post-election periods.

“He is a revered elder statesman from the North, boasting an illustrious records of service. Where were these individuals in 1999 when he emerged victorious in the gubernatorial election?

“Where were them during his tenure as Vice President? It is evident that this is not a targeted attack only to Atiku Abubakar alone, but a direct affront to the North,” the coordinator said.

Galafi implored those responsible to promptly retract their statements against Atiku Abubakar failure to comply will necessitate appropriate actions to bring an end to this relentless stream of insults.

He added that Atiku Abubakar has rendered commendable contributions to the progress of Nigeria.

“If we permit this trend to persist, tomorrow they may be insulting our Sultan of Sokoto, our esteemed traditional title holders, and our revered elders from the North.

“We urge all stakeholders to foster an environment of mutual respect, understanding, and tolerance. It is incumbent upon each an every one of us to refrain from engaging in divisive words and instead let’s promote unity, harmony, and peace within our communities,” he said.