The Southern Kaduna Autochthonous Community Development Associations Forum has raised alarm over fresh threats by terrorists, militias, and bandits to attack several communities in Southern Kaduna, describing the situation as both urgent and deeply troubling. In a press statement issued by its chairman, Dr. Samuel T Achie, the group said the warnings have heightened fear among residents across the affected areas.
According to the Forum, security alerts circulating in the media over the past four days indicate that communities in Kachia Local Government Area, Chikun Local Government Area, and Kajuru Local Government Area are potential targets of coordinated attacks. The leadership noted that such threats are not new, recalling that similar warnings in the past decade were often followed by devastating assaults on innocent communities.
The Forum expressed concern that despite the seriousness of the threats, there appears to be no visible or decisive action from government authorities at the federal, state, and local levels to neutralize the danger. This perceived inaction, they warned, could once again expose vulnerable populations to violence, displacement, and loss of lives.
It further revealed that within the last three months alone, hundreds of residents in the affected local government areas have been abducted by criminal elements. These incidents, the Forum said, underscore the urgent need for proactive security measures rather than reactive responses after attacks have already occurred.
While acknowledging some efforts by the government to maintain peace across the country, the Forum insisted that more focused and intensified action is required in Southern Kaduna. It called on security agencies and critical stakeholders in Kaduna State to ensure that communities can go about their daily activities without fear or disruption.
The group also urged the government to fulfill previous promises, particularly in improving infrastructure such as roads, healthcare facilities, and the establishment of security posts in vulnerable communities. According to the Forum, such developments are essential to enable security operatives to access remote areas where criminal activities often take place.
In addition, the Forum appealed to political leaders and elected representatives from Southern Kaduna to unite and collaborate with community leaders in developing a comprehensive action plan for lasting peace. It emphasized the importance of coordinated strategies among neighboring local governments to deny criminals any safe haven within the region.
The statement also touched on the political dimension of the insecurity, alleging that recurring attacks may be aimed at discouraging voter participation ahead of future elections. The Forum reaffirmed its commitment to mobilizing residents to obtain their voter cards and participate fully in the democratic process despite the challenges.
Concluding the statement, the Forum called for stronger partnerships between government authorities and community associations to enhance security and promote peaceful coexistence. It stressed that addressing developmental gaps and creating employment opportunities for youths would play a crucial role in curbing violence and ensuring long-term stability in Southern Kaduna.
Shindong Bala
