…call for restraint among Hausa traders, to dialogue on peace

By Gabriel Ewepu

ABUJA – THE Coalition of Northern Groups, CNG, yesterday, vehemently condemned alleged attacks on Hausa traders in Ekpoma, Edo State.

CNG made the condemnation in a statement signed by the National Coordinator, CNG, Comrade Jamilu Charanchi, where the coalition said the alleged attacks on the traders was unwarranted and uncalled for, following the implications of such act, where the traders were chased out of the livestock market and slaughtered their goats, describing the incident as a grave injustice and a dangerous escalation of communal violence.

According to Charanchi, the Hausa traders were seen fleeing the market, abandoning their livestock, while some residents inflicted further harm.

Meanwhile, reports in the media said the attack followed the killing of a youth in the area by suspected kidnappers.

However, Charanchi said even at that people supposed not to take laws into their hands by attacking innocent traders whom they know as law abiding and had lived with them for many years without any such alleged killing of people in the area.

The Coalition also demanded immediate compensation for affected traders, noting that the loss of livestock represents not only economic hardship but also deep emotional and cultural damage.

He said: “Our traders were seen fleeing the market, their livestock left to wander aimlessly, while some residents took it upon themselves to inflict further harm. Such behavior is not only barbaric but also undermines the very fabric of our society.

“We wish to remind all parties involved that the Hausa community, like any other ethnic group in Nigeria, deserves to live in peace and security. We will no longer sit idly by while our kith and kin are attacked and marginalized in parts of the South, where they reside as minorities.

“The actions of a few irresponsible individuals should not define the relationship between communities that have coexisted for generations. We call upon the Edo State government, led by the governor, to take immediate and decisive action in response to this incident.

“The governor has publicly committed to the protection of all residents, including northerners, and we expect him to uphold these promises. We will hold him accountable for ensuring the safety and security of the Hausa community in Edo Central and beyond.

“Furthermore, we demand immediate compensation for the northerners affected by this senseless violence. The loss of livestock represents not just financial hardship but also a deep emotional and cultural wound.

“It is imperative that the affected traders receive restitution for their losses, as a step toward healing the rifts that have been unjustly widened by this attack.”

Meanwhile, the CNG called on the Hausa Community in Ekpoma and environs not to take law into their hands to revenge as the leadership of the CNG will engage with relevant authorities and stakeholders in the area to amicably resolve the issue in order for it not to be escalated.

“We reiterate our commitment to protecting the rights and interests of the Hausa community, and we will not hesitate to take further action if necessary.

“We call on all stakeholders to join us in condemning violence and working towards a peaceful resolution that honors the dignity of every Nigerian, regardless of their ethnic background”, he added.