The Arewa Youth for Liberty (AYFL) has condemned the rising wave of insecurity across the country, describing the recent abductions of schoolchildren in Kebbi, Niger and Kwara states as heartbreaking, unacceptable and a dangerous signal of growing national vulnerability.
In a statement by its spokesperson, Comrade Jabir Aminu Maiturare, the group said the attacks on schools, places of worship and public spaces showed that citizens were no longer safe, warning that the continuous targeting of children threatened both the nation’s future and communal stability.
The group said the abduction of schoolchildren not only violated their fundamental right to education but also left lasting emotional trauma on families and communities. It urged the government to recognise that securing schools and protecting children must become an urgent national priority.
AYFL called on federal, state and local governments to immediately strengthen security around schools, worship centres and markets by deploying more personnel and investing in modern protective infrastructure. According to the group, nothing short of decisive and well-coordinated action could prevent further tragedies.
The youth organisation also demanded robust and transparent operations by law-enforcement agencies to track down and prosecute perpetrators. It urged security agencies to deepen community policing and improve collaboration with residents to ensure early detection of threats.
Traditional rulers, religious leaders and community-based groups were urged to convene roundtable discussions aimed at promoting grassroots safety initiatives and mobilising resources to protect vulnerable populations, especially children.
AYFL further encouraged parents and guardians to remain vigilant, engage their children on personal safety and participate actively in community watch structures. Schools were also advised to adopt and openly share comprehensive safety protocols with parents and students.
The group said safeguarding the lives of Nigerians must rise above political or economic considerations, stressing that collective action was the only path toward restoring hope and ensuring that children can learn and grow without fear.
