Following the recent bombings that claimed several lives and destroyed property in Borno State, in the North-East, President-General of the Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF), Alhaji Yerima Shettima in this interview described the development as “unfortunate” and called for renewed strategies and tactics to prevent a recurrence.
He spoke with SOLA OJO.
What is your take on the recent suicide bombings in Maiduguri, Borno State, coming at a time many believed bombing is over in the area?
The bombings were a tragic and senseless act of violence that has once again highlighted the ongoing security challenges facing Nigeria. The attacks, which took place on a joyous occasion and during #EndBadGovernance protests, have left families devastated and communities in mourning. Suicide bombings have become a common tactic used by terrorist groups in Nigeria, particularly by the Boko Haram insurgents. These attacks are designed to instil fear and sow discord among the population, and they often target places where people gather, such as markets, schools, and now, even weddings. The perpetrators of these attacks show a complete disregard for human life and the sanctity of peaceful gatherings, choosing instead to spread chaos and destruction.
The impact of such attacks goes beyond the immediate loss of lives and property. They also have long-lasting effects on the mental and emotional well-being of the survivors and the wider community. The trauma and grief experienced by those affected by the bombing can have a lasting impact on their lives, leading to feelings of fear, anxiety, and helplessness which are not necessary just because they are Nigerians.
In the aftermath of the bombings, it is crucial for the government and security forces to take swift and decisive action to bring the perpetrators to justice and prevent future attacks. This can be done by way of improving intelligence gathering, increasing security measures in vulnerable areas, and addressing the root causes of extremism and radicalisation across the country.
It is also important for the international community to continue to support Nigeria in its efforts to combat terrorism and promote peace and stability in the region. By working together, we can help prevent further tragedies like the one that occurred in Maiduguri and create a safer and more secure future for all Nigerians.
In your assessment of this development, is Borno in for another showdown with the dreaded Boko Haram remnants?
We should not forget in a hurry that Borno State has been a hotbed of terrorists’ activities for several years, particularly with the presence of the dreaded Boko Haram group. The group, which has been responsible for numerous attacks, kidnappings, and killings in the state, has been a constant threat to the security and stability of the entire region. Despite efforts by the Nigerian government to combat the group, Boko Haram remnants continue to pose a significant challenge to the region.
In recent months, there have been reports of increased activity by Boko Haram remnants in Borno State, leading to fears that the region may be in for another showdown with the terrorist group. The group has been carrying out attacks on military and civilian targets, causing fear and uncertainty among the residents of the state. The recent attacks have raised concerns about the ability of the Nigerian security forces to effectively combat the group and protect the people of Borno State.
So, the resurgence of Boko Haram in that state is a serious cause for concern, because it threatens to undo the progress that has been made in the fight against the group. The Nigerian government has made significant efforts to combat Boko Haram, including launching military operations and implementing counter-terrorism measures. However, the group continues to pose a threat to the region, highlighting the need for a sustained and coordinated effort to address the root causes of terrorism in the area.
The situation in Borno State underscores the complex nature of the threat posed by Boko Haram and the challenges faced by the Nigerian government in addressing it. The group’s ability to regroup and launch attacks despite ongoing military operations is a clear indication of the resilience and adaptability of the group. It also highlights the need for a comprehensive approach to counter-terrorism that addresses the underlying grievances and conditions that fuel extremism.
How would you describe President Bola Tinubu’s constant positions that the federal government was coming after the perpetrators?
President Tinubu’s statements regarding the Federal Government’s intention to pursue and bring to justice those responsible for criminal activities are a reflection of the government’s commitment to maintaining law and order in the country. The President’s strong stance on this issue sends a clear message that the government will not tolerate any form of criminal behaviour and will take decisive action to ensure that justice is served.
So, the threats made by President Tinubu are a response to the increasing incidents of crime and violence in the country, which have caused fear and insecurity among the population. By publicly declaring that the Federal Government will go after the perpetrators of these crimes, President Tinubu is sending a message of reassurance to the public that the government is taking the necessary steps to address the situation and restore peace and security.
It is important to note that President Tinubu’s threats are not just empty rhetoric, but a signal of the government’s determination to tackle the root causes of crime and violence in the country. By holding those responsible for criminal activities accountable, the government is sending a strong message that impunity will not be tolerated and that the rule of law will be upheld.
In your view, what can he do differently?
A lot. As president, Tinubu has a significant role to play in addressing these security challenges. First and foremost, Tinubu can leverage his political influence and connections to advocate for the implementation of comprehensive security reforms. This includes strengthening the capacity of security agencies, improving intelligence gathering and sharing, and enhancing coordination among different security forces. Tinubu can use his position to ensure the allocation of more resources to the security sector and ensure that these resources are effectively utilized to combat insecurity.
Like I said, Mr President can work towards addressing the root causes of insecurity in Nigeria such as poverty, unemployment, and social inequality, which are often drivers of criminal activities.
In addition, the president can promote community policing and engagement as a key strategy to enhance security at the grassroots level. By empowering local communities to take ownership of their security and work collaboratively with security agencies, helping to build trust and cooperation between the people and the authorities which can lead to more effective crime prevention and detection, as well as improved intelligence gathering and information sharing.
Moreover, he can initiate a national dialogue on security, bringing together stakeholders from government, civil society, academia, and the private sector to discuss and develop holistic solutions to the security challenges facing Nigeria.
Do you see a committed synergy among the security agencies to address the escalating insecurity in the North East and North West?
It is important to acknowledge that the security situation in the North East and North West regions of Nigeria is dire. The activities of terrorist groups such as Boko Haram in the North East and bandits in the North West have led to loss of lives, displacement of communities, and destruction of property. In order to effectively address these security challenges, there needs to be a coordinated effort among the various security agencies operating in these regions.
The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has emphasised the importance of a committed synergy among the security agencies to tackle the insecurity in the North East and North West. This is indeed a crucial aspect of addressing the security challenges in these regions. However, the question remains whether there is actually a committed synergy among the security agencies.
It is evident that there have been efforts to enhance collaboration among the security agencies in the North East and North West. For example, joint military operations have been conducted to target terrorist groups and bandits in these regions. Additionally, there have been instances of intelligence sharing and coordination among the security agencies to address the security challenges.
However, it is also important to note that there have been instances of lack of cooperation from some state governors such as that of Zamfara. This has sometimes led to gaps in the security operations and allowed the perpetrators of insecurity to evade capture. In order to effectively address the security challenges in the North East and North West, there needs to be a more robust and sustained effort to ensure a committed synergy among the state governments and security agencies.
It is expected that the two Ministers of Defence who are of the northern extraction would be able to fast-track a peaceful North, but the farmers cannot still go to farms and children cannot go to school in distant locations, why?
It is a common expectation that individuals in positions of power, such as the Ministers of Defence would be able to effectively address and resolve issues that are prevalent within their own region. In the case of Badaru Abubakar and Bello Matawalle, the two Ministers of Defence who are of northern extraction, there is an anticipation that they would be able to fast-track a peaceful North. However, despite their committed efforts, the reality on the ground paints a different picture. Farmers are still unable to go to their farms, and children are unable to attend school in distant locations.
One possible explanation for the continued challenges faced by farmers and children in the North could be the complexity and deeply rooted nature of the issues at hand. The issues of insecurity and violence in the region are multifaceted and have been ongoing for a significant period of time. It is not realistic to expect that these problems can be resolved overnight, even with the best intentions and efforts of the Ministers of Defence.
The challenges faced by farmers and children in the North may also be exacerbated by external factors such as the presence of armed groups and the lack of adequate security measures in place. In many cases, farmers are unable to access their farms due to the threat of violence from these armed groups, while children are unable to attend school due to safety concerns. Without addressing these underlying security issues, it is difficult for any government official, no matter how well-intentioned, to make significant progress in improving the situation for farmers and children in the region.
The lack of infrastructure and resources in the North may also be contributing to the challenges faced by farmers and children. In many remote and distant locations, there may be a lack of basic amenities such as roads, schools, and healthcare facilities. This lack of infrastructure can further exacerbate the difficulties faced by farmers and children in accessing essential services and opportunities.
Addressing these issues will require a comprehensive and sustained effort, involving not only government officials but also the cooperation and support of local communities, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders. Only through a collaborative and holistic approach can lasting peace and stability be achieved in the North, allowing farmers to go to their farms and children to attend school without fear.
With the current security and hunger in the land with little or no money in people’s pockets, won’t that expose vulnerable persons to crime exploitation?
The truth is that with the current state of security and hunger in the land, coupled with the lack of financial resources in people’s pockets, there is a significant risk of vulnerable individuals being exposed to crime and exploitation. This is a pressing issue that requires immediate attention and action from policymakers and society as a whole.
The lack of security in many communities has created an environment where criminal activities thrive. With limited resources to invest in security measures, individuals are left vulnerable to various forms of crime, including theft, robbery, and violence. This not only poses a threat to the physical safety of individuals but also contributes to a sense of fear and insecurity in the community.
The prevalence of hunger and poverty in the land has left many individuals desperate for basic necessities such as food and shelter. This desperation can make individuals more susceptible to exploitation by unscrupulous individuals who may take advantage of their vulnerable state. This can manifest in various forms, such as human trafficking, forced labour, and sexual exploitation. The lack of financial resources in people’s pockets further exacerbates their vulnerability to crime and exploitation. Without the means to meet their basic needs, individuals may resort to desperate measures to survive, including engaging in criminal activities or accepting exploitative offers in exchange for financial support.
So, it is crucial for policymakers to prioritise addressing the root causes of insecurity, hunger, and poverty in order to protect vulnerable individuals from falling victim to crime and exploitation.
Any message for leaders and followers of Boko Haram, bandits, and other crime merchants in the North?
To the leaders and followers of Boko Haram, bandits, and other crime merchants in the North, I have a message for you. It is time to reconsider your actions and the impact they have on society. Your acts of violence and terror have caused immense suffering and destruction in the region, and it is time to put an end to this cycle of violence.
As leaders, you have a responsibility to your followers and to the community at large. Your actions have consequences, not only for those directly affected by your violence, but for the entire region. The instability and fear that you have created have hindered development and progress, and have left many innocent people in a state of constant fear and uncertainty.
As followers, it is important to question the motives and actions of your leaders. Blindly following orders that result in harm to others is not only morally wrong, but it also perpetuates a cycle of violence that ultimately harms everyone involved. It is important to consider the long-term consequences of your actions and to think about the impact they have on the wider community.
It is never too late to change course and seek a more peaceful and constructive path to move forward because there are always alternatives to violence and terror, and it is possible to work towards a more just and equitable society without resorting to such extreme measures. By choosing to engage in dialogue and peaceful resolution of conflicts, we can help to build a better future for ourselves and for the generations to come.