Amotekun problematic, not solution to insecurity: NEF

The Northern Elders Forum (NEF) has described the Amotekun, a regional security outfit in the South-West geo-political zone as problematic.

The security outfit was established by state governments in the Yoruba predominately area to assist in flushing out criminal elements from the region.

But the NEF through its director of publicity and advocacy, Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, while speaking on rising tensions in the region over eviction notice to violent herdsmen criticised the formation saying it is not going to solve insecurity in the area.

“The resort to regional outfits like Amotekun and other self-appointed guardians of security of communities are not solutions to these limitations. In the last few days, the nation has noticed the problems with these outfits and actions of locals who masquerade as defenders of ethnic interests,” Mr Baba-Ahmed said.

“At all cost, Nigerians who break the law should have no cover or immunity, whether they are Fulani or local enforcers or organizations. The Forum believes it is time for the federal government to recognize and deal with the issue of cattle herding as a national challenge, and adopt policies that will mitigate the problems it poses to the economy, farmers, herders and all communities.

“Most important, the Forum advises President Muhammadu Buhari to meet immediately with all State Governors and heads of security and law and order agencies to examine how the current tensions in the country can be de-escalated.

“Events in the South West are assuming national dimensions, and only a national approach will provide short and long term solutions.

“The Forum appeals to all Nigerians to exercise great restraint in their comments and actions in these trying times. It appeals to leaders at all levels to contribute to the search for solutions to developing threats which will make all our lives worse,” the group added.