The Northern Elders Progressive Group (NEPG) and the Arewa Youths Coalition for Peace and Political Development (AYCPPD) have demanded an immediate apology from head of state of Niger Republic, General Abdourahamane Tchiani, over allegations that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is colluding with France to destabilise his country.
In a communiqué issued after their 8th joint meeting in Kaduna on January 1, 2025, the groups described Tchiani’s accusations as “baseless, unpresidential, and capable of straining long-standing ties between Nigeria and Niger.”
The groups cautioned against making reckless claims that could undermine the peace and unity of the two nations.
The communique was jointly signed by Hon. Yusuf Abubakar, convener of the coalition, Alhaji Yasir Ramadan Kano the youth group leader, and Mustafa Aliyu Dustin-Ma, for the NEPG.
The groups emphasized the importance of fostering historical cooperation and mutual respect between the neighbouring countries and called President Tchiani to “refrain from actions that could create unnecessary tension.”
While commending President Tinubu’s administration for initiatives like “Fansan Yamma” to combat insecurity in the north, the groups also called on Nigerian leaders to unite and address the region’s challenges collectively.
The communiqué further criticised certain clerics for engaging in divisive rhetoric, appealing to them to avoid spreading misinformation that could disrupt social harmony.
They also praised National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, for his efforts in stabilising the region and urged him to prioritise ending the activities of bandit leader, Bello Turji, in Sokoto, Zamfara, and Katsina states.
The communiqué also underscored the need for unity, patriotism and responsible leadership in addressing the north’s pressing challenges.