ACF, Makarfi, Katung Seek Renewed Commitment to Peace and Unity in Nigeria
The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has issued a stark warning, describing Nigeria as sitting on a keg of gunpowder due to persistent security challenges and severe economic deprivation, particularly in the northern regions. In an Eid-el-Fitr message delivered by its spokesman, Prof. Tukur Muhammad-Baba, the group emphasized the urgent need for the Federal Government to address these issues to prevent a catastrophic situation.
Dire Economic and Security Conditions Highlighted
Prof. Muhammad-Baba lamented that this year's Holy Month of Ramadan was observed amidst existential challenges and a downward spiral in living conditions. He pointed out that generalized dire economic hardships contradict official claims of improvement, with multidimensional poverty and socio-economic deprivations affecting a vast majority of citizens. Nigeria, especially the North, retains the unenviable status of the poverty capital of the world, where living challenges have become deeply entrenched.
He warned that the challenges are deep, wide, cascading, and spiraling out of control, affecting all three geo-political regions in the North. Despite this, he urged Nigerians to remain patient and steadfast in prayers for a better future, noting that no existential condition lasts forever.
Calls for Political Responsibility and Security Support
The ACF also called on politicians aspiring for office in the 2027 elections to embrace values of prudence, restraint, and introspection, stressing their responsibilities to the electorate. Additionally, the forum appealed for unalloyed support for security agents fighting to decimate criminals and criminality across Nigeria.
Makarfi and Katung Echo Peace and Unity Appeals
Former Kaduna State governor, Senator Ahmed Muhammad Makarfi, in his Salah message, called on Nigerians to pray for sustainable peace and unity, which he described as fundamental requirements for development. He expressed gratitude to Allah for the completion of Ramadan and emphasized the lessons of spiritual rejuvenation, sacrifice, and empathy.
Makarfi urged Nigerians to use the Eid-el-Fitr celebrations as an opportunity to rededicate themselves to prayers for a speedy resolution of the country's problems. He expressed unwavering faith in Nigeria's potential to lead in Africa and beyond, calling for hard work and commitment alongside prayers.
Senator Sunday Marshall Katung, representing Kaduna Southern District, also urged Nigerians to commit to peace and national cohesion. In his Salah message, he prayed that the festive season strengthens bonds of unity, tolerance, and mutual respect, regardless of tribe, religion, or background.
Katung highlighted Ramadan as a period of reflection, sacrifice, and compassion, reminding citizens of virtues like patience, humility, and generosity. He reaffirmed his dedication to promoting policies that uplift people, empower youth, support women, and improve community well-being, striving for sustainable development and inclusive growth.
Together, these leaders underscore the critical need for collective action and spiritual resilience to navigate Nigeria's pressing challenges and foster a harmonious society.
