The Northern Traditional Rulers Council for the South-South and South-East Regions has reaffirmed its commitment to fostering peace, unity, and cooperation by pledging full support to security agencies and State Governments in addressing security challenges across both regions.
Chairman of the Council and leader of the Hausa Community in Abia, Alhaji Yaro Danladi, made this known on Sunday while briefing journalists on the outcome of the council’s two-day emergency meeting in Umuahia.
Danladi explained that northern communities had resolved to collaborate closely with governors, host communities, and security agencies to maintain peace and stability.
“We agreed to work hand-in-hand with our governors and live peacefully with the indigenous people of our host states,” he stated.
He noted that the meeting was convened to respond to emerging security concerns, with a key resolution to support law enforcement with timely intelligence sharing. In Abia State, he said, representatives would be appointed in all 17 local government areas to ensure the quick relay of vital information to security authorities.
“Once any incident occurs, information will reach me within minutes, and I will immediately contact the Commissioner of Police, the DSS or the state security adviser,” Danladi added.
He reaffirmed that northern leaders would not shield any individuals involved in criminal acts, stressing their commitment to law and order.
“We do not support criminals, and anyone involved in crime will be handed over to law enforcement agencies,” he said.
Danladi also urged northern youths living in the South-South and South-East to obey local laws, live peacefully, and continue to build cordial relations with their host communities.
Highlighting the deep-rooted relationship between northerners and the region, he said many families have lived there since the 1940s, intermarried, and shared strong communal bonds.
“We have lived as one family for decades, and we want that relationship to continue,” he emphasized.
Similarly, Alhaji Abubakar Sambo, Leader of the Hausa Community in Enugu and National Vice Chairman of the Inter-tribal Traditional Leaders Association of Nigeria, reiterated the council’s resolve to strengthen peace, security, and cooperation.
“We discussed ways to deepen peaceful coexistence with our host communities and enhance intelligence sharing to support State Governments,” he noted.
He added that the council would establish structured communication networks across states and local governments to improve coordination, welfare, and information flow among northern residents.
Sambo emphasized that the Sarkin Hausawa remains the traditional and recognized authority for addressing issues within northern communities, a structure that has preserved peace for over a century.
Also speaking, the Head of the Hausa Muslim Umma in Cross River, Alhaji Garba Lawan, praised the enduring harmony between northern communities, their host states, and local governments.
He acknowledged the continued security and social support enjoyed in the region and reaffirmed the community’s commitment to lawful conduct, particularly in trades like scavenging, which had recently been regulated in collaboration with government authorities.
Lawan concluded by commending State Governments for their inclusive approach and mutual understanding, describing it as a reflection of the strong and lasting unity between northerners and their southern hosts.
