The Northern Elders Forum (NEF) says Nigeria’s corporate existence is being threatened by a combination of “weak and ineffective governance” and efforts of some “political adventurers” bent on capitalising on the weakness to divide the country.
NEF’s Director of Publicity and Advocacy, Dr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed stated this in a Monday statement.
He warned that those trying to blackmail or threaten the North into doing their bidding were grossly mistaken.
“NEF has been following recent developments, events and utterances from many quarters, suggesting that our country is at a defining moment that will determine its fate and the security of all Nigerians for a long time to come.
“It is no exaggeration to say that our country has never been so threatened by a combination of weak and ineffective governance and a determined effort from many quarters to capitalize on this weakness to attack the foundations which give all citizens and communities some comfort that we are not headed for almost certain, irretrievable disaster.
“It appears that many groups and persons who have public standing, political adventurers and upstarts believe that it is open season to intensify attacks on the foundations of our co-existence through acts that provoke, frighten or otherwise cast doubts over the capacities of those who have sworn to protect the nation and citizens.
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“The continuous silence from responsible Nigerians and the capitulation of hitherto influential groups to politics of the gutter is creating a dangerous space which further erodes the chances that a rational approach to the triggers to these provocations can be found.
“Many of the provocations and threats are directly related to maneuvers for 2023, as well as attempts to hurt and weaken the North by making it the culprit behind all manner of grievances, real or contrived,” the statement read in part.
Baba-Ahmed called on leaders, elders and other patriotic Nigerians to rise to the occasion and “save the country from imminent disaster”.
He warned that “people who believe they can intimidate or threaten the North into submitting to their demands are grossly mistaken”.
“The North also wants a Nigeria which addresses at least a minimum of its requirements, and these are many.
“Like all other Nigerians, it believes this country must meet particular and general interests, and no group’s interest is superior to the other’s.
“There is a long way to go before 2023. Our democratic process must not be made the hostage to dangerous and shortsighted politics.
“There are politicians who think weakening the country is their best guarantee for achieving their goals.
“Groups which are floating irredentist agendas to blackmail others do not impress the North.
“It is vital that elected leaders find the will to reduce the damage of opportunistic politicians,” the statement further read.