In response to the recent terrorist massacre in Plateau State, northern Christian groups have criticized President Bola Tinubu’s administration as ineffective and out of touch. Following a two-day meeting in Jos, the Plateau State capital, on Thursday, the Christian Youth Initiative (CYI) and Northern Nigeria Unity Initiative (NNUI) called for the region to take control of its own future, citing failures in security and widespread poverty.
In a communique released at the end of their discussions, the groups expressed dismay over the Tinubu administration’s impact, noting that many Nigerians are struggling to afford basic necessities, including sufficient food. They also condemned the recent surge in the price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) to an unprecedented N897 per litre, criticizing the government’s insensitivity to the economic struggles of the populace.
“The purpose of the meeting was to advocate for inclusive and people-centered governance in the Northern region and nationwide, addressing ongoing insecurity and economic hardship.
“After extensive deliberation on the country’s dire situation and the apparent ineptitude of the APC-led government, the participants made several recommendations. They expressed frustration over the failure to adequately address issues such as kidnapping, banditry, and the farmers/herders conflict, questioning why, despite significant resources allocated to security, terrorists continue to operate freely and dominate social media.
“The participants strongly condemned the worsening security conditions, the increasing hardship faced by Nigerians, and the skyrocketing costs of essential goods. They were particularly critical of the government’s recent decision to raise the price of petrol to N897 per litre, describing it as a grave oversight.
“The undersigned organizations, along with committed Northern leaders advocating for a unified Nigeria that values shared purpose over tribal, religious, or regional differences, have resolved to withdraw their support for this administration.”
The meeting, which included 150 representatives from 19 northern states, also urged democratic figures such as Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Omoyele Sowore, and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso to unite and shape the nation’s future in the 2027 elections.
The communique was signed by Rev. Dr. Samaia Joshua Asake, Evang. Aliyu Ibrahim, Eld. Mark Wosi, and Comrade Yunusa Suleiman.