SKJF Laments Worsening Security Situation In Southern Kaduna

NEWSDAILYNIGERIA: The Southern Kaduna Journalists Forum,( SKJF) has decried what it called the Worsening Security Situation In Southern Kaduna, describing it as alarming, disturbing and unacceptable,

SKJF further lamented the continued incarceration of several Kidnapped victims and called for their safe, immediate and unconditional release in the hands of their captors.

This is contained in a communique issued by its Chairman and Secretary, Bosan Yakusak and Isreal Bulus, with Ango Bally and Lilian Silas, the Forum’s Chairman and Secretary respectively, at the end of its congress held at the Forum’s headquarters on the 7th June in Kaduna.

The Congress brought together members of the Forum across the country to deliberate the progress of the organization and the prevailing security challenges confronting communities across Southern Kaduna and state.

While commending the Kaduna State Government, the forum called for deeper Interface with communities bedeviled by insecurity” congress noted and appreciated the inclusive governance style of Governor Uba Sani and his engagement with diverse stakeholders across Kaduna State. Members encouraged the Governor to sustain this approach and deepen consultations with communities affected by insecurity in order to foster peace, stability, and development.”

SKJF also called for the Immediate release of Kidnapped victims,, ” Congress expressed deep concern over the continued captivity of worshippers abducted from Ariko Village in Kachia Local Government Area of state during Easter and other victims of kidnapping across Southern Kaduna. The Forum called on the Kaduna State Government, security agencies, and all relevant authorities to intensify efforts towards securing their immediate and unconditional release.”

The group decried what it described as the Worsening Security Situation in southern Kaduna ” Congress described the security situation in several Southern Kaduna communities as alarming, disturbing, and unacceptable. Members observed that recurring attacks, kidnappings, and threats to lives have adversely affected economic activities, displaced numerous families, disrupted farming and commercial activities, and created an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty across the region.

Congress noted that the persistent insecurity is undermining socio-economic development and worsening the humanitarian situation in many communities.

SKJF further expressed concern over communities negotiating with terrorists/ bandits, ” The Forum expressed grave concern over reports that some communities have resorted to negotiating with bandits and other criminal elements for survival and protection. Congress observed that such developments reflect growing desperation among affected residents and underscore the urgent need for stronger government intervention and improved security presence in vulnerable areas.

On unfulfilled government commitments to Kurmin Wali community, ” Congress expressed disappointment over the non-fulfilment of commitments regarding the construction of access road infrastructure and the establishment of a Primary Health Care Centre in Kurmin Wali community which suffered abduction of 177 worshipers in January, this year.

The Forum called on the Kaduna State Government to honour these commitments without further delay, noting that the projects are critical to improving the welfare and living conditions of the affected community.

The Forum maintained the need for government to protect lives and property of Nigerians” Congress reiterated that the protection of lives and property remains the primary responsibility of government.

The Forum therefore called on the Federal Government, Kaduna State Government, and security agencies to demonstrate greater commitment, urgency, and effectiveness in addressing insecurity across Southern Kaduna and other affected parts of the state.

The Group called for support for victims and displaced persons” Congress urged government agencies, humanitarian organizations, and development partners to provide relief materials, rehabilitation assistance, healthcare services, educational support, and resettlement programmes for victims of attacks and internally displaced persons in affected communities.

” Congress urged security agencies and relevant authorities to ensure the arrest, investigation, and prosecution of perpetrators and sponsors of violent attacks, kidnappings, and other criminal activities in Southern Kaduna. The Forum stressed that justice remains essential to restoring public confidence and deterring future crimes.

The Forum also expressed commitment towards partnering with government at all levels professionally – through fair reportage, advocacy and intelligence sharing .

” Congress further called for the establishment of additional security formations and operational bases in vulnerable communities to effectively tackle the growing security threats in the region.

” The Forum reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to using journalism as a tool for accountability, peacebuilding, advocacy, and the promotion of the collective interests of the people of Southern Kaduna, Kaduna and Nigeria at large.” the communique added.