“Calls For Total War” – ACF Reacts To Calls For Mercenaries To Be Brought In To Fight Terrorists In Nigeria

The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has declared that while the frustration of leaders in the war against terrorists and terrorism in Nigeria is understandable, a lasting solution is what should be employed.

This is as the ACF said in a statement on Sunday that bringing in mercenaries to fight terrorists in the country is an issue that must be cautiously considered.

The forum in a statement by its secretary-general, Murtala Aliyu submitted that a fire brigade approach must be avoided in tackling the issue at hand though the terrorists have asked for total war.

Naija News reports the ACF’s reaction comes after Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai revealed on Friday after a meeting with President Muhammadu Buhari in Abuja that the state governors were ready to bring in foreign mercenaries to fight bandit terrorists if the federal government of Nigeria refuses to do the needful.

The Governor’s statement follows the recent attacks and killings in Kaduna State including the attack on the International Airport as well as last Monday’s bomb explosion on the Abuja-Kaduna train.

But ACF said any action that would be taken must be carefully considered while ensuring Nigeria remains stable and strong.

“Inviting mercenaries to fight our cause must be treated with utmost caution,” the ACF warned.

“The Arewa Consultative Forum appreciates the frustration of leaders at the sub-national level, however, we call on the governments, governors, and citizens alike, to avoid any fire brigade approach on any pressing issue that bedeviling the country,” the forum added.

“The security of the country rests on the central government and calls for a cursory, calm, implementable and lasting solution.

“The new dimension of the terror attacks, in the country, both on human and infrastructure calls for total war.

“The authorities may look at the possibility of utilizing volunteers, such as the ex-servicemen and women, the civilian task forces, hunters and whatever is available to make every inch of Nigeria habitable and peaceful.

“We must appreciate the responsibility bestowed on us by providence as the largest black nation and as a leader on our continent must do everything within our powers to keep Nigeria stable and strong.”