By Abdullahi Alhassan, Kaduna The Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) has strongly condemned the recent unprovoked attack on members of the...
By Abdullahi Alhassan, Kaduna
The Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) has strongly condemned the recent unprovoked attack on members of the Hausa community in Ekpoma, Edo Central, describing it as a dangerous escalation of ethnic violence.
According to the group, the attack was allegedly carried out by some youths who chased Hausa traders out of the local livestock market and slaughtered their goats, an action CNG described as unjust, provocative, and deeply troubling.
CNG said the violence reportedly followed the killing of a local youth by suspected kidnappers. While acknowledging the grief and anger such an incident can generate, the coalition stressed that targeting innocent traders was unjustifiable and unacceptable.
“These traders are law-abiding citizens who contribute meaningfully to the local economy and embody the values of peaceful coexistence,” the group said, adding that scenes of traders fleeing the market while their livestock wandered unattended were disturbing.
The coalition noted that further acts of violence, including the killing of animals by residents, were not only barbaric but also undermined social harmony and communal trust.
CNG emphasized that the Hausa community, like every other ethnic group in Nigeria, has the constitutional right to live and conduct lawful business in peace and security anywhere in the country.
“We will no longer remain silent while our people are attacked and marginalized in parts of the South where they live as minorities,” the group warned, stressing that the actions of a few individuals must not be allowed to destroy relationships that have existed for generations.
The coalition called on the Edo State Government to take swift and decisive action to address the incident and prevent further violence.
It reminded the governor of his public commitment to protecting all residents of the state, including northerners, and said he would be held accountable for ensuring the safety of the Hausa community in Edo Central and beyond.
CNG also demanded immediate compensation for affected traders, noting that the loss of livestock constitutes both economic hardship and emotional distress.
“The affected traders must be adequately compensated as a necessary step towards healing and restoring trust,” the coalition said.
While condemning the attack, CNG urged calm and restraint among Hausa traders and community members, calling for vigilance without resort to violence.
The group said it would engage local leaders and relevant stakeholders in dialogue to address grievances and promote understanding and cooperation.
“We reaffirm our commitment to defending the rights and interests of the Hausa community. We will not hesitate to take further lawful action if necessary,” the statement said.
CNG called on all Nigerians and stakeholders to condemn violence and work collectively toward peaceful coexistence, stressing that the dignity and safety of every citizen must be respected regardless of ethnic background.
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