Rita Odafe
Yakubu Dogara, a former Speaker of the House of Representatives, expressed deep concern about the escalating violence and insecurity in the Northern region of Nigeria.
Referring to it as the region’s primary site of bloodshed and loss, he made these comments during a keynote speech titled “The Role of Youth Leadership in Channeling Northern Youths towards Development and Progress.” This was presented at the Zaar Youth Development Association (ZAYODA) fundraiser in Abuja on Sunday, July 28, 2024.
Dogara stressed the shared responsibility in tackling these challenges and highlighted the weariness and resignation even among those who have spoken out against the violence.
“Currently, the North is facing an unparalleled crisis unlike anything we have experienced before.
“A significant portion of us are enveloped in anger, some in a state of delirium. Regrettably, we often equate our joy with the misery of others.
“Each one of us bears some responsibility. Even the minority who have dared to raise their voices now find themselves overwhelmed with outrage and have succumbed to pessimism,” he stated.
Dogara underscored the necessity of unity for the North’s sustenance and advancement, asserting, “Our power doesn’t lie in sheer numbers but in our cohesion. Through unity, we find strength; through maintaining our connections and remaining undivided, we become unbeatable.”
He portrayed a bleak image of the current state of affairs, mentioning widespread insecurity, allegations of ethnic cleansing, and pervasive violence.
“The assaults are relentless with no sign of abating. The situation has spiraled out of control, marked by indiscriminate bloodshed by Boko Haram/ISWAP militants and bandits, as well as rampant kidnapping for ransom and large-scale abductions of school children across various Northern regions,” he elaborated.
Dogara highlighted the severe repercussions of violence in the region, with almost 90% of the nation’s security challenges concentrated in the North.
He also drew attention to the alarming rates of out-of-school children, poverty, and malnutrition prevalent in the area.
The former Speaker urged the youth to embrace leadership roles and strive towards a unified and flourishing Northern region.
