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Comrade Abubakar Hamma Galafi, team leader
By Akanji Alowoludo, Bauchi
Against the backdrop of inciting comments across the country in recent times, political parties, government institutions, civil society organizations, and citizens at large have been implored to prioritize national interests above personal or parochial agendas.
The call was made by a political pressure group, Arewa Youths Group of Concerned Nigerians during a press conference held at the NUJ Press Center, Bauchi on Tuesday stressing that, “It is only through collective action and inclusive dialogue that we can overcome the obstacles that hinder our progress as a nation.We urge all stakeholders to foster an environment of mutual respect, understanding, and tolerance. It is incumbent upon each of us to refrain from engaging in divisive rhetoric and to promote unity, harmony, and peace within our communities.”
The Group led by Comrade Abubakar Hamma Galafi stated that ,”As responsible and patriotic citizens, we remain committed to the rejuvenation of our great nation through the implementation of effective policies aimed at fostering positive change. Regrettably, our endeavors have been overshadowed by disparaging remarks from individuals who should exemplify higher standards. It is crucial that we take this opportunity to call for decorum, as the preservation of sanity, unity, and security within our country hangs in the balance.”
“We appeal to the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Nigerian youths, and all concerned citizens to recognize the irreplaceable nature of our nation. Our democracy serves as the bedrock upon which our collective aspirations and yearnings find expression. Our diversity, a divine endowment, remains unchangeable by any but the divine Himself. Hence,” he added,
According to him, “it is imperative that we embrace unity and progress as the guiding principles for our collective journey. While legal recourse is being pursued to address our concerns, we emphasize the need to exercise caution and avoid hasty conclusions. We earnestly implore all individuals to desist from making unnecessary comments and hurling insults targeting specific regions, ethnic groups, or religious affiliations. Failure to adhere to this call for restraint, will only serve to fuel further tensions and hostilities.”
The group took a swipe on recent actions undertaken by former Governor of Rivers State, Nyesom Wike, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, and the G5 stating that,”collective are not solely directed at Atiku Abubakar, but appear to bear implications for Northern Nigeria as a whole. It falls upon us to rise to the occasion and confront these challenges head on, demonstrating our preparedness to counter any endeavors aimed at disrupting the Arewa people.”
It added that, “Furthermore, we call upon the All-Progressives Congress (APC) to exercise due diligence in discerning the identities and intentions of these individuals. Their overt animosity towards the North, Hausa, and Fulani communities renders them untrustworthy in every respect.”
“The PDP must acknowledge that we, as concerned youths, remain dedicated to the advancement of our party and our nation. We unequivocally reject any form of hypocrisy from groups or individuals who display disrespect towards our esteemed elders. The baseless comments and insults directed at Wazirin Adamawa, despite his dignified silence, epitomize the graceful and composed nature of His Excellency Atiku Abubakar, the man who never replied back, attacked or mentioned in his speeches any political party candidates name with an insulting term throughout the pre- and post-election period,” it added.
According to the Group, “He is a revered elder statesman from the North, boasting an illustrious record of service. Where were these
individuals in 1999 when he emerged victorious in the gubernatorial election? Where were they during his tenure as Vice President? It is evident that this is not a targeted attack only on Atiku Abubakar alone but a direct affront to the North. We implore those responsible to promptly retract their statements against Atiku Abubakar.”
It stressed that, “Failure to comply will necessitate appropriate actions to bring an end to this relentless stream of insults.Atiku Abubakar has rendered commendable contributions to the progress of Nigeria. If we permit this trend to persist, tomorrow they may insult our Sultan of Sokoto, our esteemed traditional title holders, and our revered elders from the North. The absence of respect demonstrated by these individuals signifies a profound hostility towards our existence.We remain resolute in our pursuit of a brighter tomorrow for our nation, one that upholds the legacies of visionary leaders such as Tafawa Balewa and Sir Ahmadu Bello. We reaffirm our unwavering belief that Allah bestows power upon those He chooses, but this should never serve as a pretext for anyone to disrespect us.”
Comrade Abubakar Hamma Galafi added that, “Together, let us redirect our focus towards addressing the pressing challenges of insecurity, poverty, unemployment, and the escalating cost of commodities. These issues demand our utmost attention and concerted efforts. By working hand in hand, irrespective of our regional, ethnic, or religious backgrounds, we can forge a path towards a stronger and more
prosperous Nigeria.”
According to him, “As the Arewa Youth Group of Concerned Nigerians, we remain steadfast in our commitment to promoting the welfare and well-being of our fellow citizens. We call upon all Nigerians to join us in our pursuit of a brighter and more prosperous future for our beloved country.
We believe that by focusing our energies on finding sustainable solutions to the challenges plaguing our nation, we can build a society that provides equal opportunities, security, and dignity for all its citizens.”
He concluded saying that, “Together, let us transcend the barriers that divide us and embrace the shared values that unite us as Nigerians. We stand ready to contribute our efforts towards creating a Nigeria that we can all be proud of a Nigeria that thrives on unity, peace, and progress.
“May the Almighty bless our nation and guide us towards a future filled with hope and prosperity,” he said.
