By Ada Nkong
The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Zone D, has strongly condemned the persistent attacks, killings, and rising insecurity across parts of North Central Nigeria, especially Plateau, Benue, and Kwara States.
A Statement signed by Comrade Juliana Ose Ofoku, Zonal Secretary, NAWOJ Zone D says the position was reached at the end of the Zonal Executive Council (ZEC) meeting held virtually on Tuesday, and presided over by the Vice President, Comrade Chizoba Ogbeche; where the leaders of the Zone expressed deep concern over the alarming rate of violent crimes in the region, including recurrent attacks in Plateau State, kidnappings along the Kogi axis, and continued killings in Benue and Kwara States.
The meeting which was attended by the Zonal Secretary; BoT Zone D, Ex-officio Zone D; Chairpersons and Secretaries of state chapters, notes that the protection of lives and property remains the primary responsibility of government at all levels.
They therefore, called on the Federal Government, the affected state governments, and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) as well as the security agencies to adopt proactive and intelligence-driven strategies to address these security challenges.
In addition, NAWOJ urged the swift arrest and diligent prosecution of all perpetrators to ensure justice and deter future occurrences.
The association also advocates for improved collaboration among North Central governors and the FCT Minsiter, including the consideration of a regional security outfit to strengthen coordinated responses to insecurity.
In addition, NAWOJ calls on the Federal Government to adequately equip security agencies with modern tools and technology, while enhancing intelligence gathering to prevent further attacks on communities.
The association expresses concern over the plight of victims of these violent attacks, particularly women and children, and urges governments to provide necessary support, including rehabilitation, empowerment, and access to education for affected children.
NAWOJ also notes the economic hardship caused by the rising cost of petroleum products, which has significantly increased transportation costs; it therefore calls on governments to implement measures such as subsidised transportation and to encourage flexible work arrangements to ease the burden on citizens.
Furthermore, the association decries the poor condition of roads across the country and calls for urgent rehabilitation to reduce accidents and economic losses.
Finally, NAWOJ Zone D urges women across the country to actively participate in politics by registering with political parties and contesting elective positions.
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