From Fred Ezeh, Abuja
The leadership of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammed Sa’ad Abubakar, have raised the alarm over rising insecurity in Nigeria, particularly the activities of bandits operating in different parts of northern Nigeria and beyond.
They jointly raised the concerns under the umbrella of Nigeria Inter-Religious Council (NIREC) which they co-chaired.
Fr. Cornelius Afebu Omonokhua, executive secretary of NIREC, in a statement, noted that the religious leaders were concerned with the unchecked activities of the non-state actors, who are on a rampage unleashing terror on the people.
The statement noted: “Recently, we have the report of 13 farmers killed in Shiroro LGA of Niger State, 150 persons abducted in Gobir District in Sokoto State, the District Head of Gatawa, Sokoto State gruesomely murdered, foiled bandits attack in Malumfashi LGA of Katsina State and many others.These spate of attacks within the window period of one week is very disheartening and of great concern.”
The religious leaders, therefore, called on the government and security agencies to intensify their efforts to eradicate these menaces in the society so that citizens can go about their normal businesses without fear or apprehension.
They commiserated with the families of all those who lost their lives in the disdainful acts and also prayed that all those that were still in captivity would be safely reunited with their loved ones.
They called on all Nigerians to be cautious, vigilant and report any suspicious activity as security is a collective effort and not just for the government alone.