Northern Ethnic Youth Association Condemns Political Exploitation of Security Issues
The Northern Ethnic Youth Association (NEYGA) has criticized presidential candidates Atiku Abubakar of the All Democratic Congress (ADC) and Peter Obi of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) for politicizing Nigeria’s ongoing security challenges. The association urged both candidates to take a lesson from U.S. and Israeli leaders who prioritized national unity and support during crises like the 9/11 attacks and the Oct. 7, 2023 Hamas attacks.
Response to Recent School Attacks
NEYGA expressed disappointment over the statements made by Mr. Atiku and Mr. Obi following the recent kidnappings of students in Oyo and Borno states. They condemned the use of such tragedies for political gains, particularly as children faced grave dangers at the hands of armed groups.
Candidates’ Critiques of the Government
Mr. Obi criticized the Tinubu administration for its inability to safeguard schoolchildren, terming them as “pawns in the ransom economy.” Meanwhile, Mr. Atiku claimed that the nation’s security challenges undermine initiatives like the “safe schools” program. He argued that if thousands of abducted citizens remain in captivity, President Tinubu should have no reason to stay in office even for a moment longer. According to Atiku, the primary responsibility of any government is the safety and welfare of its citizens.
NEYGA’s Stance on Politicians’ Accountability
NEYGA firmly believes that both Atiku and Obi’s attempts to leverage the suffering of innocent schoolchildren for political advantage are unethical and unpatriotic. The group stated that both politicians have significantly contributed to the deterioration of Nigeria’s security landscape.
Calls for Political Responsibility
In a statement delivered by spokesperson Alhaji Ibrahim Dan-Mussa, NEYGA expressed dismay at the actions of those aspiring for high political office. They emphasized that individuals in such positions should not exploit vulnerable populations for political gain. NEYGA pointed out that comments made by the two candidates only serve to validate President Tinubu’s claims about efforts to use insecurity for political ends.
Historical Context for Political Support During Crises
NEYGA highlighted examples from other nations where political leaders unite in the face of security threats. They referenced the 9/11 terrorist attacks in the U.S., where political rivals put aside differences to support President George Bush. Similarly, they noted that during the 1972 Munich massacre, Israeli political parties rallied around Prime Minister Golda Meir rather than attacking her leadership, creating bipartisan support for national security.
A Call for Constructive Engagement
The association urged candidates Atiku and Obi to mirror the behaviors of constructive opposition in other regions. They stressed that true leaders support their governments in times of crisis, rather than seeking to exploit situations for electoral advantage. NEYGA concluded by chastising both candidates, particularly Atiku, for their connections to past governmental failures surrounding terrorism and for perpetuating a culture that could further endanger schoolchildren.
