Nigeria is currently grappling with what many see as its most severe security crisis since gaining independence, according to Reuben Fasoranti, a leading figure in the Afenifere socio-political group. Speaking through Kole Omololu, Afenifere’s National Organising Secretary, during the 25th anniversary of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) in Kaduna, Fasoranti painted a stark picture of escalating violence, eroding public trust, and the fraying of social cohesion across the nation.
Describing the Silver Jubilee of the ACF as a moment for sober reflection, Fasoranti lamented the unprecedented level of insecurity confronting the country. “We have never had to deal with this level of insecurity… This is a sad moment for our country,” he stated, emphasizing the urgent need for national dialogue and cross-regional cooperation.
Fasoranti also praised the ACF for its 25-year history of service, noting its role as a stabilizing voice for Northern Nigeria and a platform for national unity. He highlighted that the forum’s founders sought to articulate Northern perspectives responsibly and with dignity, contributing meaningfully to Nigeria’s national conversation.
While acknowledging the enormity of the challenges, Fasoranti expressed confidence in the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, noting that the “Renewed Hope Agenda” has the potential to guide Nigeria toward stability. He urged leaders from the north and south to build partnerships based on mutual respect and shared responsibility, rather than rivalry or suspicion. “Our challenges, though immense and complex, are not insurmountable. What is required is sincerity of purpose, courageous leadership, and a renewed commitment to fairness and justice,” he added.
In a call for historical introspection, Fasoranti encouraged revisiting the debates that shaped Nigeria between 1953 and 1966, suggesting that lessons from the past could inform solutions to today’s security challenges. “It is time to reflect on what our fathers and leaders proposed and discussed… This has become urgent and imperative for the security of our people and the future of this country,” he stressed.
The goodwill message was delivered to an audience that included prominent figures such as former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, business magnate Aliko Dangote, former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi, and representatives of Ohanaeze, PANDEF, BRAC, and other socio-cultural organizations.
Fasoranti concluded by urging the ACF to remain a constructive force in addressing Nigeria’s mounting challenges, promoting peace, democratic values, and national understanding. He congratulated the forum on its silver jubilee milestone and prayed for divine guidance for the nation’s leaders, hoping the next 25 years would bring greater achievements, renewed purpose, and enduring relevance. The event reaffirmed the ACF’s role as a critical northern intellectual and policy platform, capable of guiding governance, shaping national debate, and advancing inclusive development.
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