Former Senator Shehu Sani has called on northern political leaders to address the root causes of insecurity in the region instead of exploiting it for political gain, particularly as the 2027 general elections approach.
Speaking during a courtesy visit by the Open Heart Foundation and Women Empowerment Centre in Kaduna, Sani criticised what he described as the “political hypocrisy” of Northern leaders, highlighting that insecurity has plagued the region for over a decade.
He identified factors such as the almajiri system, mass illiteracy, poverty, and underdevelopment as key drivers of the crisis.
“The terrorists in the North-East are northerners. The bandits in the North-West speak Hausa, Fulfulde, and Kanuri, not Mandarin or French. This is our problem, and only we can solve it,” Sani said.
He also urged civic groups to hold governments accountable without being co-opted for political battles.
“Continue to speak out, but never allow yourselves to be used to undermine our security agencies,” he said.
Recalling attacks over the past 15 years, Sani said, “Northern Nigeria has been a theatre of bloodshed. Schools, churches, mosques, villages, nothing has been spared since 2013.”
He warned that insurgent networks now operate across West Africa with growing boldness.
Sani also condemned political actors who, he claims, celebrate attacks to weaken the government or use insecurity as leverage ahead of the 2027 elections.
He criticised former Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai for allegedly appeasing bandits and highlighted the irony of his actions, including withdrawing his son from a local school due to insecurity.
Despite ongoing challenges, Sani acknowledged progress under the current Kaduna State administration, led by Governor Uba Sani, citing improvements in religious harmony and security in flashpoints like Birnin Gwari.
He also credited President Bola Tinubu’s government for measurable achievements in addressing insecurity.
Sani stressed that solutions must come from within: “The United States will not save us. Europe will not. Our salvation lies in strengthening our armed forces and uniting as citizens. Insecurity does not stop at borders.”
He warned that as elections near, attacks on schools, churches, and mosques may increase, noting that some actors see bloodshed as a route to power.
The Open Heart Foundation and Women Skill Empowerment Centre expressed deep concern over the abduction of students and insecurity nationwide, calling on authorities and citizens to ensure all victims are safely returned.
