By Abubakar Yunusa
The Coalition of Northern Groups has raised fresh concerns over worsening insecurity in northern Nigeria, warning against attempts to exploit ethnic and religious fault lines.
The group condemned recent attacks in Plateau and Kaduna states, describing the incidents as brutal and inhumane.
It cited the killing of at least 14 persons in Anguwan Rukuba, Jos North Local Government Area, and another attack on a wedding gathering in Kagarko LGA of Kaduna State, where 13 people were reportedly killed and several others abducted.
In a statement by its National Coordinator, Jamilu Aliyu Charanchi, the coalition said the deliberate targeting of civilians was a grave assault on humanity.
“CNG is also disturbed by reports of retaliatory actions by some youths in Plateau, which further endanger innocent lives and risk igniting a cycle of violence,” Charanchi said.
“We caution strongly against reprisals, mob actions, or the profiling of individuals based on identity. Such responses only deepen divisions and play directly into the hands of those who seek to destabilise our communities.”
The group urged religious leaders and community influencers to avoid inflammatory comments capable of worsening the situation.
It also raised alarm over the alleged involvement of foreign actors and non-state elements, warning that such forces could be exploiting existing tensions.
“These elements thrive in environments of chaos and division, and there is an urgent need for vigilance against attempts to manipulate local conflicts,” the statement added.
The coalition called on both federal and state governments to act decisively in protecting lives and property, noting gaps in intelligence and response coordination.
It stressed the need for proactive and sustainable security strategies to address the root causes of insecurity.
“Security agencies must ensure that perpetrators of these heinous crimes are swiftly apprehended and brought to justice,” Charanchi said.
The group expressed solidarity with victims and their families, urging citizens to remain calm and united.
“Northern Nigeria must not be allowed to descend into a cycle of violence fueled by fear, suspicion, and manipulation,” it added.
