By Sani Gazas Chinade, Damaturu
The Kulen Allah Vitality Self-Reliance Association (KACRAN), a leading organization dedicated to conflict resolution between herders and farmers, issues urgent appeal to Northern leaders and the Federal Government to prioritize diplomatic dialogue as the primary solution to the region’s security crisis.
A statement by Khalid Muhammad Bello who is the National President of the Association stated that the “KACRAN expresses its profound disgust and total condemnation of the ongoing cycle of violence across Nigeria. We reject the heinous acts of bandits, volunteers and criminal elements who continue to kidnap, injure and brutally kill innocent citizens.
“Beyond the human toll, the destruction of property and the rustling of millions of livestock have decimated the livelihoods of our people, threatening the economic foundation of the North,” the statement added.
Acknowledging National Efforts
“We recognize the significant efforts of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR; the National Security Adviser, Malam Nuhu Ribadu; the Minister of Defence; and the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa. We commend the doggedness of our gallant military and security personnel who continue to make the ultimate sacrifice.”
However, KACRAN remains deeply concerned that despite these efforts and the allocation of over five trillion Naira in the 2026 Defence Budget, insecurity persists.
According to him, KACRAN believes that while military action is necessary, the “militarization” of internal conflicts often leads to more sophisticated and complex security challenges. “We propose a shift toward a logistical and diplomatic formula based on the following pillars:
Unity of Command: “We call on Northern Governors, National and State Assembly members, Traditional Rulers, Religions Leaders and all stakeholders to work in synergy to identify and address the root causes of regional instability.
Dialogue Over Arms: “We urge leaders to initiate sincere, brotherly dialogue. History shows that no internal conflict is resolved solely by bullets; permanent peace is achieved through mutual respect and trust.
Economic Reinvestment: By resolving conflicts diplomatically, Governments resources can be redirected towards youth employment, infrastructure, and the holistic development of Agriculture (Arable, Livestock, and Fisheries).
A Clarion Call to Action: “Peace and security in the North is the bedrock for peace in Nigeria,” stated Hon. Khalil Mohd Bello, adding that “If Northern leaders commit sincerely to peace and receive the necessary federal support, they possess the local capacity and logistical approach to end this ugly trend.”
KACRAN further demands that bandits and criminal elements immediately and unconditionally cease the killing of innocent Nigerians. “We must learn from the tragic precedents of nations like Libya, Sudan, and Syria; we cannot afford to remain in a state of uncertainty.
“We express our profound grief and serious concern over the recent brutal killing of more than 200 innocent people in Niger and Kwara States, as well as the abduction of 176 individuals in Kwara. We call on the relevant authorities and security agencies to ensure the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages across the country.
Now is the time for Northern leaders to reciprocate the President’s trust. With the region holding key security appointments — including the NSA and Defence Ministers — there is no better time to deliver results. “We call on all Nigerians to embrace unity as the only model for making our nation a leader in Africa,” the president further noted.
