‘Our Worst Nightmare Is Back’ Northern Leaders Decry Resurgence Of Suicide Bombings

Last Saturday, multiple suicide bombings rocked Gwoza community in Borno State, resulting in over 30 deaths and 100 injuries. This tragic incident has reminded the nation of the dark days when suicide bombings were frequent in northern Nigeria. Northern leaders and stakeholders have voiced their deep concern and fear, lamenting the resurgence of such attacks.

Rev. John Joseph Hayab, former chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria and Country Director of the Global Peace Foundation Nigeria, expressed that the return of suicide bombings has brought fear and confusion to the region. He emphasized the need for the Federal Government and security agencies to intensify their efforts to prevent further escalation. Hayab highlighted the added burden on a population already struggling with poor leadership and widespread hunger, suggesting that northern leaders and youths should mobilize support for security measures and expose those promoting violence.

Alhaji Yerima Shettima, President General of the Arewa Youth Consultative Forum, noted that the Gwoza incident shattered the hope that suicide bombings were becoming a thing of the past. He pointed out the broader implications of such attacks, including economic setbacks and increased social unrest. Shettima called for long-term solutions to address the root causes of terrorism, emphasizing community resilience and social cohesion to prevent radicalization.

The Middle Belt Forum (MBF) has suggested that the recent bombings might have political motivations. Dr. Bitrus Pogu, National President of MBF, speculated that some political interests might be using insecurity to hinder the return of over 120,000 Gwoza indigenes from Cameroon. He argued that these political interests fear losing votes from the predominantly Christian refugees and thus might be behind the renewed attacks.

Anthony Sani, former Secretary General of the Arewa Consultative Forum, stated that the resurgence of suicide bombings indicates that past efforts only temporarily subdued the terrorists. He stressed that addressing poverty, ignorance, and unemployment is crucial for a permanent solution to terrorism. Sani advocated for both punitive and preventive measures, including better-equipped security forces and prioritizing education and health.

Mallam Suleiman Abdul-Azeez of the Northern Elders Forum highlighted the economic drivers behind the recruitment of individuals into terrorist groups. He called for sustainable economic development to provide alternatives to joining extremist groups. Abdul-Azeez also stressed the importance of improving security and intelligence, strengthening border security, fostering community resilience, and promoting interfaith dialogue to counter extremism.

The northern leaders and stakeholders agree that a multi-faceted approach is needed to address the complex challenges posed by the resurgence of suicide bombings. By working together to improve security, economic opportunities, and social cohesion, they hope to create a safer and more prosperous future for their communities.