The Arewa Youth Federation has accused certain Nigerian politicians of exploiting the Niger Republic’s political crisis to undermine President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s government. The group condemned the use of misinformation and ethnic sentiments to incite division in Northern Nigeria, particularly through the amplifying of baseless allegations made by General Tchiani of Niger. They urged citizens to remain vigilant against divisive tactics and promote unity for national stability.
The Arewa Youth Federation (AYF) has condemned certain Nigerian politicians for exploiting the ongoing political turmoil in Niger Republic to discredit President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. In a statement by AYF President, Adamu Kabir Matazu, it was claimed that these politicians are leveraging misinformation and ethnic divides to incite discord within Northern Nigeria. Amid the deteriorating relations following the Nigerien junta takeover in July 2023, General Abdourahamane Tchiani’s unfounded allegations against Nigeria have exacerbated tensions. Tchiani accused Nigeria of hosting French military bases aimed at destabilizing Niger, which AYF characterized as an unfounded tactic intended to manipulate public perception and rally support for his troubled regime.
Matazu emphasized the absence of credible evidence supporting Tchiani’s claims, highlighting Nigeria’s longstanding opposition to foreign military installations. The AYF further noted that certain politicians, particularly those who failed in the 2023 elections, are attempting to undermine President Tinubu’s governance by fostering unrest and trying to instigate division among the northern populace. They accused these individuals of engaging in information warfare, spreading disinformation and fake news to create a rift between the citizens and the federal government.
The group highlighted that the increasing amplification of Tchiani’s claims, particularly in the Hausa language, suggests an effort to mobilize ethnic sentiments against the Tinubu administration. Such tactics mirror past political strategies used during Nigeria’s election-related violence in 2011. The AYF concluded that a small but influential elite is determined to destabilize President Tinubu’s administration as part of a broader campaign to preserve their political power by forming alliances with external actors like Tchiani. Therefore, the federation urged Nigerian citizens to be vigilant and to reject these divisive tactics, advocating instead for peace, unity, and progress amid the crisis.
The political landscape in Niger Republic has considerably shifted since the military coup in July 2023, leading to escalating tensions between Niger and Nigeria. This has created a fertile ground for political opportunism, with some Nigerian politicians attempting to manipulate the situation for their gain. The Arewa Youth Federation, representing northern interests in Nigeria, has raised concerns regarding the exploitation of ethnic sentiments and misinformation, suggesting that some politicians aim to disrupt President Tinubu’s government by creating dissent and disillusionment among the populace. It highlights an ongoing struggle between competing political factions in a volatile environment.
The AYF’s statement underscores the dangers posed by politicians who seek to exploit regional turmoil for personal gain. The organization calls for increased vigilance among citizens to recognize and reject the divisive tactics employed by these politicians. By promoting unity and public awareness, the AYF advocates for a strong collective response to safeguard Nigeria’s political integrity and social cohesion amid emerging challenges.
Original Source: dailytrust.com
