Abuja- In a press conference held on Thursday at the NUJ, FCT Secretariat in Utako, Abuja, Comrade Yarsin Lukah Doherty, the National Coordinator of the North Central Youth Security Forum (NCYSF), addressed the pressing issue of escalating insecurities, particularly banditry and kidnapping in the North Central region.
Highlighting the gravity of the situation, Doherty condemned the recent killing of victims abducted from an estate in Dutse, Abuja, emphasizing the alarming escalation of ransom demands by the criminals. Expressing concern about the safety of the nation’s capital, he questioned where else could be considered secure in the country.
While acknowledging the historical presence of insecurity nationwide, Doherty pointed out the North Central, especially states like Plateau and Benue, along with parts of the North West, has become a hotspot for banditry and kidnapping, causing unbearable living conditions for affected communities.
Despite the grim circumstances, Doherty commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his proactive measures to address insecurity. He specifically praised the recent directives to security agencies to combat criminal activities and expressed solidarity with the President’s intent to collaborate with a special security outfit dedicated to forest crimes.
The youth coordinator urged President Tinubu to sign the Nigerian Hunters and Forest Security Service (NHFSS) Bill into law. Advocating for the NHFSS as an autonomous government agency, Doherty emphasized the organization’s decade-long existence, structured command, and control mechanism. He highlighted the vital role played by over 20,000 officers across the country, collaborating with supportive state governors.
While acknowledging potential financial implications for the federal government, Doherty argued that the cost would be justified considering the substantial losses incurred from criminal activities, tarnished national image, and the need to attract investors. He emphasized the NHFSS as a potential source of massive employment, aligning with the President’s commitment to job creation as a means to address youth unemployment and curb insecurity.
In conclusion, the National Coordinator called on President Tinubu to prioritize the signing of the NHFSS Bill, viewing it as a strategic move in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda and a crucial step toward strengthening national security.
