The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF), representing northern youth organizations, has voiced its support for the government’s decision not to negotiate with bandits following the abduction of 287 students and teachers from Kuriga Government Secondary and LEA Primary Schools in Kaduna State.
The President General of AYCF, Alhaji Yerima Shettima, condemned the abduction and urged security agencies to work diligently to ensure the safe release and reunion of the students with their families.
Speaking to newsmen recently, Shettima expressed dismay at the audacity of the abduction and emphasized the need for the federal government to adhere to military engagement protocols in securing the release of the abducted children without compromise.
“We are completely against negotiating with criminals; there should be no dialogue with bandits because it only emboldens them to continue their criminal activities,” Shettima stated.
Responding to reports of the government considering hiring a private negotiator, Shettima emphasized the importance of trust in the government’s actions and decisions regarding the abduction. He underscored the AYCF’s confidence in the government’s stance against negotiating with criminals.
Meanwhile, concerns have arisen as 72 hours have passed since the abduction with no visible progress towards the rescue of the students and teachers.
He reiterated the urgency of the situation, urging the government to maintain its commitment to leaving no stone unturned in rescuing the abducted individuals promptly.
In closing, the AYCF president urged Nigerians to intensify prayers against the escalating insecurity in the country, particularly the targeting of educational institutions.
