The Birnin Gwari Emirate Progressives Union (BEPU) wishes to draw the attention of the Government, security agencies, the media and the general public to recent developments affecting peace and security in Birnin Gwari Emirate.
Over the last two years, Birnin Gwari has witnessed remarkable progress in peacebuilding and security restoration. Through the collective efforts of the Government, security agencies, traditional institutions, community leaders and other stakeholders, relative peace has returned to many parts of the Emirate.
A statement signed by Dr Isah Muhammad,,ChairmanBirnin Gwari Emirate Progressives Union (BEPU) said
this progress has brought renewed hope to our people and has become a model that other communities and states seek to emulate.
However, BEPU is concerned that a few criminal elements among the armed groups operating in the forests have continued to undermine these gains. While many have embraced peace initiatives, some individuals have either refused to surrender their weapons or have chosen to act outside the framework of the peace agreements.
Reports reaching BEPU indicate that these elements occasionally invade farmlands, intimidate farmers and threaten innocent citizens. There have also been cases of the forceful seizure of motorcycles and mobile phones belonging to farmers and other residents. Understandably, these incidents have caused anxiety and frustration among members of the community.
Despite these provocations, BEPU, in collaboration with the Government and security agencies, has consistently appealed to the people to remain calm, patient and law-abiding. We firmly believe that the painful era of widespread banditry and insecurity, which devastated Birnin Gwari for many years, must never be allowed to return.
It is with deep sadness that we recall the killing of one of our sons, Ibrahim Adamu, a commercial driver from Birnin Gwari, who was reportedly attacked and killed while travelling from Kaduna to Birnin Gwari three days ago around Buruku area in Chikun Local Government. This tragic incident has generated widespread grief and heightened public concern regarding the sustainability of the peace process in the area.
Following the incident, there was an unfortunate reaction by some aggrieved individuals who had previously suffered losses from criminal/bandit activities. In the ensuing tension, three Fulani individuals were assaulted before security personnel intervened promptly and restored order. The victims were taken to hospital, treated for their injuries and have since been discharged. We are pleased to state that no lives were lost in this incident.
BEPU strongly frowns at all forms of violence, reprisal attacks and actions capable of reigniting conflict in Birnin Gwari. We believe that the overwhelming majority of our people, irrespective of ethnic or social background, desire peace and stability. We must therefore resist every attempt by criminal elements or individuals seeking personal or political gains to drag our community backwards.
Accordingly, BEPU respectfully calls on the Government and relevant authorities to take urgent and decisive measures to preserve the hard-earned peace that Birnin Gwari has enjoyed for nearly two years.
Specifically, we appeal for the following:
Immediate measures to stop rising cases of banditry/insecurity around Easter Birnin Gwari in areas like Kuyello.
Immediate and effective measures to stop the recurring seizure of motorcycles, mobile phones and other valuables belonging to farmers and residents in Birnin Gwari Emirate.
Renewed efforts to recover illegal firearms still in the possession of criminal elements/bandits who continue to threaten peace and security.
A comprehensive review of the ongoing peace process in order to identify emerging challenges and address them before they escalate.
Increased engagement with local communities, especially farmers, to reassure them of the Government’s commitment to protecting their lives and property and to discourage any temptation towards self-help or armed self-defence.
Enhanced intelligence gathering and security patrols across farming communities and major roads, particularly during this rainy season.
This appeal is particularly important because the rainy season is now in full swing and farmers have already commenced cultivation. Agriculture remains the backbone of Birnin Gwari’s economy and contributes significantly to food production not only in Kaduna State but also in neighbouring states and even neighbouring countries such as Niger Republic.
Should insecurity return and farmers become unable to access their farms due to threats, intimidation or criminal attacks, the consequences would extend beyond Birnin Gwari and could affect food security and economic stability across the region.
BEPU also calls on all residents of Birnin Gwari to continue to exercise patience, restraint and vigilance. We urge our people to remain united, cooperate with security agencies and continue praying for lasting peace and prosperity in our land.
As the nation gradually approaches the 2027 general elections, BEPU further appeals to politicians and political actors to conduct their activities responsibly and with the fear of God. The pains and sacrifices endured by the people of Birnin Gwari should never be exploited for political advantage or used to inflame tensions.
We equally call on all patriotic sons and daughters of Birnin Gwari, irrespective of political affiliation, to support every sincere effort aimed at sustaining peace rather than undermining ongoing reconciliation initiatives for partisan reasons.
Furthermore, BEPU advises motorists and commercial drivers to avoid unnecessary night journeys and to strictly adhere to security advisories issued by the authorities.
BEPU remains committed to promoting peace, supporting lawful initiatives for security and working with all stakeholders to ensure that Birnin Gwari continues on the path of stability, progress and development.
May Almighty Allah continue to protect Birnin Gwari, Kaduna State and the Federal Republic of Nigeria.