‘We Never Negotiated With Terrorists; Worst Security Since Independence’ — Afenifere Raises Alarm

• Afenifere leader, Chief Reuben Fasoranti, says Nigeria is experiencing its most severe security breakdown since independence

Afenifere leader, Chief Reuben Fasoranti, has declared that Nigeria is battling its worst security crisis since independence, insisting that the group has never engaged in any form of negotiation with terrorists.

Fasoranti delivered the message through Afenifere’s National Organising Secretary, Kole Omololu, at the 25th anniversary celebration of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) in Kaduna. He lamented that the nation is currently “confronted by unimaginable violence, declining public trust, and the fraying of social bonds.”

He described the ACF Silver Jubilee as a moment for sober reflection. “We have never witnessed this level of insecurity. It is a sad period for our country,” he said.

While commending the ACF for its 25 years of service and advocacy, Fasoranti noted that the forum had remained a stabilising voice in the North and a platform for national dialogue and unity. He praised the founders of ACF for creating an organisation that articulates the northern perspective with responsibility and dignity.

Despite the growing security concerns, Fasoranti expressed confidence in President Bola Tinubu’s leadership, saying the “Renewed Hope Agenda” has the potential to stabilise the country. He stressed that Nigeria’s challenges, though daunting, are not impossible to overcome with sincerity, courageous leadership, fairness, and justice.

He urged northern and southern leaders to deepen cooperation rooted in trust and shared responsibility. “Our partnership must be based on mutual respect, not suspicion or rivalry,” he said.

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Fasoranti also called for a revisit of the foundational debates held between 1953 and 1966, arguing that historical reflection is necessary to tackle today’s security challenges and protect Nigeria’s future. “It is time to reflect on what our fathers proposed and discussed. This has become urgent and imperative,” he added.

The goodwill message was delivered before a high-powered gathering including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, business mogul Aliko Dangote, former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi, and representatives of Ohanaeze, PANDEF, BRAC and other major socio-cultural organisations.

Fasoranti praised the ACF for promoting peace, national understanding and democratic values over the past 25 years. He urged the forum to remain focused on finding solutions to the country’s rising challenges. “May your discussions yield constructive resolutions that will help shape a more stable, secure, and inclusive Nigeria,” he said.

He congratulated the ACF leadership on its silver jubilee and prayed for divine guidance as the nation confronts mounting insecurity and developmental setbacks. “I pray that the next 25 years bring greater achievements, renewed purpose, and enduring relevance,” he added.

The event reaffirmed the ACF’s influence as a northern intellectual and policy platform capable of shaping national debate, guiding governance, and promoting inclusive development.