Northerners in South-West Fear Being Labeled Bandits

Northerners residing in South-West Nigeria are increasingly facing challenges due to rising insecurity and fears of being labeled as bandits or Boko Haram. Ahmad S.

Salihu, the Osun State chairman of the Arewa Development Support Group, highlighted recent incidents, including the abduction of students and teachers in Oyo State, which have heightened tensions in the region. He reported that a vigilant group rescued six northern youths who were lynched under the suspicion of being bandits while traveling in a truck carrying livestock.

Salihu advised northern travelers to exercise caution, avoid actions that may arouse suspicion, and refrain from traveling in livestock trucks. Additionally, Malam Zayyanu Muhammad, a leader of the Fulani community in Ekiti State, noted increased difficulties due to security concerns, including indiscriminate arrests and harassment by security personnel.

The Lagos State Police Command has also debunked false reports of bandit attacks in Ibeju Lekki, emphasizing the importance of reporting suspicious activities through official channels.