The Northern Elders Forum has stated that the people of South-Eastern Nigeria have been responsible for the most violence against northerners.
Chairman of NEF, Professor Ango Abdullahi, raised the allegation on Tuesday in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. The Forum paid a visit to the state governor, Nyesom Wike as part of a tour of northern communities in different states of the country.
Abdullahi said; “We came because we saw no reason innocent residents, wherever they are, irrespective of where they come from, who are not participating in the protest will be subjected to violence.They suffered enormous violence and loss of lives and assets of various magnitude.What was surprising to us was that those that perpetrated the violence against northerners are the same people who are crying more and calling for compensation.”
He continued; “It is now becoming clear that most of the violence that are being meted out to the northerners in various parts of the South came from people from the south-eastern states. People with some names.”
“We are not sure what name really they want to keep. They come with different brands, use these names to perpetrated criminality in different parts of the country. For years, this particular incident has been with us.It is up to the authorities to assure all of us that this must end. This must stop. I think the North will no longer allow this redline to be crossed.”
“It is because people get away with criminal behaviour without sanctions and punishment that is why they keep recycling this irresponsible behaviour.”
“Therefore, as we leave the South-South, we will be heading for the South-East.” he said.
