Northern Nigeria is bleeding

We’re calling on President Muhammadu Buhari to immediately declare a state of emergency in Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina and other states in the north west  that have been besieged by armed violence and militant attacks to secure the lives and properties of millions of Nigerians, who fear for their lives.

Alarming violence and unabated killings by armed groups in northern Nigeria have spawned the region into a full-blown humanitarian crisis and a national embarrassment. 

More than 30 people, including women and children, were burned to death in a recent attack in Sokoto State after a group of gunmen opened fire on a bus loaded with passengers, according to eyewitnesses 

"There were 33 elderly persons and many children in the vehicle when it was attacked, the bandits opened fire on the vehicle, forcing it to somersault and they kept firing at our vehicle until it somersaulted three times and burst into flames. Only I and one other passenger miraculously came out of the bus, but the other passenger later died from gunshot injuries.,” an eye witness, Shafa’atu told a local media.

She added that the men reportedly stood back and watched their victims die after an explosion occurred thereafter.

Thirty souls burnt to ashes - their dreams gone, their family left in pain, and the country in tragedy. The gruesome attack is not an isolated incident- it is another in the series of carnage happening in Northern Nigeria.

More than 80 people were killed in another attack after gunmen descended on eight villages in Kebbi State this year. Thousands of Nigerians have fled from their homes and farms in Zamfara state, where armed assault and hostage-taking is the business of the day. 

According to the UN Refugee Agency, over 2.9 million people are internally displaced in Nigeria’s northeast, and the situation is further worsened daily by the conflict-induced food insecurity, severe malnutrition, and terrorist' attacks.

Despite the best intentions and efforts of the Nigerian governments and humanitarian aid to address insecurity in the region has not stopped the wanton bloodshed by bandits and armed militants.

The North of Nigeria is gradually becoming a war zone.

The once beautiful Northern cities, famous for their fertile land, beautiful mountains, and vibrant history, now flow with innocent blood and wandering souls. 

The situation is DIRE and we are seeking as a matter of urgency, the following:

1. President Muhammadu Buhari declares a state of emergency in Zamfara, Katsina, Sokoto states
2. A public pronouncement from Northern Leaders and Emirs condemning all forms of violence.
3. We want the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Faruk Yahaya to prioritize and deploy military troops across these states.

Sign this petition to ensure that the Nigerian government delivers on its responsibility to protect citizens from violence.

We must secure the North now!