 has strongly condemned the escalating wave of violence ravaging the North-West and North-Central regions, calling for an urgent shift){kind=link}
DAMATURU — The Kulen Allah Cattle Rearers Association of Nigeria (KACRAN) has strongly condemned the escalating wave of violence ravaging the North-West and North-Central regions, calling for an urgent shift from prolonged militarization to a comprehensive diplomatic solution.
In a press statement issued in Damaturu by its National President, Hon. Khalil Muhammad Bello, the association decried the “heinous acts of bandits, volunteers and other criminal elements” responsible for kidnappings, killings and large-scale destruction of livelihoods across the North.
KACRAN described the persistent bloodshed as a direct threat to the economic backbone of the region, noting that the rustling of millions of livestock and destruction of property have pushed thousands of families into hardship.
The association acknowledged ongoing federal efforts to curb insecurity, commending Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, the Minister of Defence and the Chief of Defence Staff, Christopher Musa for their commitment. It also praised the resilience and sacrifices of security personnel operating in volatile areas.
However, KACRAN expressed concern that despite these efforts — including over ₦5 trillion allocated to defence in the 2026 budget — insecurity remains deeply entrenched.
According to Bello, while military operations are necessary, over-reliance on force risks complicating internal conflicts. He proposed what he termed a “logistical and diplomatic formula” anchored on unity of command, dialogue and economic reinvestment.
Under the “Unity of Command” pillar, KACRAN urged Northern governors, members of the National and State Assemblies, traditional rulers, religious leaders and other stakeholders to work in synergy to identify and address the root causes of instability.
On “Dialogue Over Arms,” the association emphasized that sustainable peace can only emerge from sincere engagement and mutual trust. “History has shown that no internal conflict is permanently resolved by bullets alone,” Bello stated.
KACRAN further advocated for “Economic Reinvestment,” arguing that funds saved from reduced conflict operations should be redirected toward youth employment, infrastructure development and comprehensive investment in agriculture — including arable farming, livestock and fisheries.
The group expressed deep grief over the recent killing of more than 200 people in Niger and Kwara states, as well as the abduction of 176 individuals in Kwara, describing the incidents as tragic reminders of the urgency for coordinated action. It called on security agencies to secure the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages nationwide.
“Peace and security in the North is the bedrock for peace in Nigeria,” Bello declared. “If Northern leaders commit sincerely and receive necessary federal support, they possess the capacity to end this ugly trend.”
KACRAN also warned against allowing Nigeria to drift into prolonged instability, citing the painful precedents of Libya, Sudan and Syria.
As insecurity continues to test national cohesion, the association urged Nigerians to embrace unity and collective responsibility, insisting that only a harmonized diplomatic and security strategy can restore lasting peace and reposition the country as a leader in Africa.
— Sani Gazas Chinade, Damaturu
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