From Femi Oyelola, Kaduna
The Arewa Cohesion for Justice, Unity, and Development Initiative has called on the Federal Government to intensify efforts to end the rising insecurity that threatens peace and stability across Nigeria, following the death of retired Army Major General Rabe Abubakar in bandits’ captivity.
In a condolence statement issued to the press and signed by its Director General, Dr. Abdullahi Idris, the group expressed deep sorrow over the death of the former senior military officer. According to reports, General Abubakar was abducted along with his wife by bandits in Katsina State on May 30 and later died while in captivity, an incident that drew widespread condemnation nationwide. The organization extended sympathies to the bereaved family and the people of Northern Nigeria for their tragic loss.
Dr. Idris said this incident highlights the urgent need for stronger security measures. He urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to show greater dedication to tackling the escalating security challenges that continue to claim lives and disrupt livelihoods, especially in the North. He warned that ongoing attacks by bandits, kidnappers, and terrorists have severely impacted agricultural activities this year, undermining food production and threatening rural economies at a time when food security is already strained.
The group also called for immediate action to free students from Oyo and Borno States who remain in captivity, along with other innocent citizens held hostage in various locations. “Every life matters, and the pain of families waiting for their loved ones must not be ignored,” Dr. Idris declared.
While praising the Nigerian military for its ongoing efforts against criminal groups, he emphasized that additional measures are needed to equip security agencies better. He called for increased funding, modernization of equipment, and improved welfare and support to enable troops to combat banditry and kidnapping more effectively across affected regions.
The Arewa Cohesion Initiative stated that restoring safety in rural communities is essential for revitalizing farming, safeguarding lives, and rebuilding public confidence in government.
