The Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to prioritise the establishment of a centralized command structure within the security forces.
The CNG was reacting to the recent military airstrikes in Tudun Biri village, Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna state, which resulted in the tragic loss of innocent lives during a peaceful religious festivity.
The National Coordinator, Comr. Jamilu Aliyu Charanchi, during a press briefing in Abuja said this structure should clearly define the roles and responsibilities of each arm, ensuring effective coordination and collaboration.
He said the disjointed nature of the security forces’ operations reflects a deeper issue of inter-agency rivalry and competition, sycophancy giving rise to Defence corruption and the commercialization of the security situation.
According to him, each arm of the security forces is more concerned with protecting its own interests and reputation rather than working collaboratively towards a common goal.
He said the recurring incidents of civilian casualties resulting from military operations in northern Nigeria have raised serious concerns about the effectiveness and ethical implications of the country’s counterterrorism efforts.
He called on the government to invest in modern communication systems that enable real-time information sharing and enhance interagency cooperation.
“The CNG calls for a comprehensive, transparent, independent investigation into the Kaduna incident to ensure that all those responsible are identified and brought to justice.
” To prevent the repetition of history, where reports on sensitive issues are consigned to dusty files in government offices, we demand an independent investigation led by credible elders and reputable community leaders.
He called on the need to improve Counterterrorism Operations:
“Nigeria needs to enhance its counterterrorism and counterinsurgency operations. This includes improving intelligence gathering, coordination, and execution of military operations.
“By enhancing these aspects, the military can minimize civilian non-combatant casualties and ensure more effective counterinsurgency measures,” he said.
