The Nigerian Youths for Atiku (NYFA) has urged opposition figures to unite in holding the government accountable over security challenges.
The Director-General of NYFA, Nigeria and Diaspora, Mr Dare Dada, who made the call in a statement on Tuesday in Lagos, expressed deep concerns over the recent wave of abductions and kidnappings by terrorist groups.
Dada said Nigeria was facing unprecedented security challenges that required collective action from opposition leaders.
He said banditry, terrorism and mass abductions had continued to threaten the lives and livelihoods of Nigerians across the country.
According to him, opposition figures should focus on demanding accountability from government officials charged with protecting citizens.
“Never in our recent history have Nigerians faced such grave threats to their security and collective existence.
“Bandits and extremist groups now openly challenge the authority of the state, while students, teachers and innocent citizens are abducted in large numbers.
“Yet, those entrusted with power continue to offer little more than excuses and empty promises,” he said.
Dada said insecurity had deteriorated to a level where criminal elements operated with little fear of consequences.
He said opposition leaders had a responsibility to speak with one voice against issues affecting ordinary Nigerians.
“Under such circumstances, opposition figures should be united in holding government officials accountable for their constitutional responsibility to protect lives and property.
“Sadly, some individuals within the opposition appear more interested in undermining fellow opposition leaders than confronting the failures of the government.
“Nigeria deserves leaders who place national interest above personal ambition,” he said.
The youth leader criticized a former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Mr Babachir Lawal, over recent comments directed at former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar.
Dada said Lawal should channel his criticism toward addressing governance and security concerns confronting the nation.
Dada described allegations of religious bigotry and tribalism against Atiku as unfounded.
He said Atiku’s political history reflected inclusiveness and national outlook across religious and ethnic lines.
Dada said: “Atiku Abubakar remains one of Nigeria’s most detribalized political leaders.
“He firmly believes that every Nigerian, regardless of ethnicity, religion or region, deserves equal opportunity and representation.
“His political and business relationships span religious, ethnic and regional divides.”
He also defended the conduct of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential primary election won by Abubakar.
He said the exercise was transparent and widely accepted by stakeholders.
“The exercise was widely adjudged to be transparent, credible and democratic.
“It is therefore puzzling that an election celebrated for its fairness is now being labelled as rigged,” he said.
Dada urged political actors to prioritize national unity and efforts aimed at addressing the country’s challenges.
He said Nigeria required courage, cooperation and commitment from all stakeholders to overcome its present difficulties. (NAN)
