A coalition of Northern elders has rejected a call by former Zamfara Central Senator Kabiru Marafa urging the United States to intervene militarily in Nigeria, dismissing the remark as irresponsible, unpatriotic, and a threat to national stability.
In a communiqué released on Sunday after its annual general meeting in Birnin Kebbi, the elders described Marafa’s comments as “ridiculous” and capable of fuelling unrest at a time when the nation is battling to contain insecurity.
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National Coordinator of the group, Malam Yusuf Abubakar, said the North will not support any call that undermines Nigeria’s sovereignty or invites foreign forces into the country.
“We view the statement as a demonstration of deep unpatriotism. Such dangerous comments only heighten tension and undermine ongoing efforts to restore peace”
He urged political leaders, especially in the North, to work collaboratively with governors to tackle insecurity and poverty instead of politicising the region’s challenges.
The group also called on the Department of State Services (DSS) to investigate the former senator, noting that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the nation’s security agencies are already addressing security concerns with renewed vigour.
In addition, the elders urged security agencies to probe politicians in Zamfara and Katsina states allegedly spreading fake news capable of escalating tensions.
They commended the Federal Government’s ongoing security operations in the North-West and appealed to traditional and religious leaders to leverage their influence to promote unity and peaceful coexistence.
The group further rejected calls for the removal of Deputy Defence Minister Bello Matawalle, describing such agitation as unnecessary and politically motivated.