The Northern Elders Political Development Group has called for a psychiatric evaluation for individuals advocating for military action against Nigeria. This comes after US President Donald Trump threatened a possible invasion of Nigeria in response to calls from some Nigerians. The group’s National Coordinator, Malam Yusuf Abubakar, presented a communique following the group’s 10th meeting in Birnin Kebbi, stating that such extremist views necessitate a mental health assessment.
According to the communique, those calling for US intervention in Nigeria are not patriotic and require a psychiatric diagnosis to determine their mental well-being. The group specifically urged the Department of State Services to invite Senator Kabiru Marafa for questioning over his alleged call for a US invasion, deeming it unpatriotic.
The group also condemned Abdullahi Shinkafi for his continued criticism of the current administration and called on security agencies to investigate certain politicians in Zamfara, Katsina, and other areas. These politicians allegedly use media outlets to disseminate false information, creating tension and instability.
Furthermore, the group advised Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara to focus on addressing insecurity and poverty rather than campaigning for the removal of the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle. The group emphasized the need for northern leaders, particularly governors, to collaborate in tackling insecurity and poverty in the region, rather than engaging in acrimony and politicizing security issues.
The group commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the successful rescue of abducted students from GGCS Maga without any casualties, attributing the success to the efforts of security agencies. They also praised Governor Nasir Idris of Kebbi and Matawalle for their collaborative efforts in securing the students’ release.
The Northern Elders Political Development Group urged traditional rulers and religious leaders to unite the people and develop strategies to instill discipline in youths, particularly in addressing the misuse of social media. The group’s call for psychiatric evaluations and condemnation of extremist views highlights the need for measured and patriotic responses to Nigeria’s challenges, rather than advocating for external intervention.
