The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF), representing various northern youth organizations, has thrown its weight behind the government’s decision not to engage in negotiations with bandits following the recent abduction of 287 students and teachers from schools in Kaduna State.
Alhaji Yerima Shettima, the President General of AYCF, condemned the abduction and urged security agencies to intensify efforts to secure the safe release of the abducted individuals.
Speaking to reporters, Shettima expressed shock at the audacity of the abduction and stressed the importance of adhering to military engagement protocols in dealing with such incidents.
“We firmly oppose any negotiations with criminals; there should be no dialogue with bandits as it only encourages them to perpetrate further crimes,” Shettima asserted.
In response to reports suggesting the government’s consideration of hiring a private negotiator, Shettima emphasized the need for trust in the government’s actions and decisions regarding the abduction.
He reiterated the AYCF’s confidence in the government’s stance against negotiating with criminals.
However, concerns have mounted as 72 hours have passed since the abduction without visible progress in the rescue efforts.
Shettima underscored the urgency of the situation, urging the government to spare no effort in promptly rescuing the abducted individuals.
In conclusion, the AYCF president called on Nigerians to intensify prayers against the escalating insecurity in the country, particularly the alarming trend of targeting educational institutions.
