The forum said part of the actions should be educating the people on the importance of self-defence.
ACF Chairman, Mamman Mike Osuman (SAN), made the appeal at the opening of the forum’s National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting on Wednesday, in Kaduna.
The chairman noted the alarming rate of attacks, kidnappings and killings in the region, stressing that security challenges are not only a regional concern but also a national issue that must be given priority.
“It is imperative for leaders, stakeholders, and citizens to come together to address the region’s challenges and ensure a safer, more prosperous future for all.
“The North is currently under siege from various threats, including bandits, terrorists, kidnappers, and unjust treatment. We must come together to address these challenges.
“As leaders, we must demonstrate prudence and concern for domestic and environmental problems affecting our region. It is imperative that our governors and legislators work synergistically with traditional leaders to combat the ills plaguing our region.
“We must address the internal crimes perpetrated by our own sons and daughters, and work towards preventing these trends. There is a need for public awareness campaigns to educate our people on the importance of self-defence and preservation. We must develop local strategies to combat illegal mining by foreigners and locals in our region,” Osuman said.
The ACF chairman lauded the formation of the Shekarau-led League of Northern Democrats convened by elder statesman Dr. Umar Ardo, saying that the “group comprising former governors, senators, and other prominent figures from the region, aligns with the ACF’s goals,”
He advised it stress the need for inward reflection and immediate action, rather than focusing solely on long-term political solutions.
“The ACF commends the League of Northern Democrats’ objectives, which align with our goals, but we must focus on immediate action and inward reflection.
“We must prioritize economic empowerment, education and skills development, infrastructure development, and security and justice to revitalize the North,” he said.
