From Abdullahi Alhassan, Kaduna
The Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) has strongly condemned the recent unprovoked and violent attack on members of the Hausa community in Ekpoma, Edo Central.
The group described the actions of the youths, who reportedly chased away Hausa traders from the livestock market and slaughtered their goats, as a grave injustice and a dangerous escalation of ethnic tensions that must not be ignored.
According to reports, the attack was triggered by the killing of a local youth by suspected kidnappers. The CNG acknowledged the pain and anger caused by such tragic incidents but insisted that it was unacceptable for innocent traders—who contribute to the local economy and promote peaceful coexistence—to become victims of reprisal violence.
Eyewitnesses said the traders fled the market in panic, abandoning their livestock, while some residents further destroyed their property. The group described the act as barbaric and detrimental to the unity and peace of the society.
The CNG reminded all concerned that the Hausa community, like every other ethnic group in Nigeria, has the right to live peacefully and securely. It warned that the group would no longer remain passive while northerners are attacked and marginalized in southern parts of the country where they live as minorities.
The coalition emphasized that the actions of a few reckless individuals should not define the longstanding relationship between communities that have coexisted peacefully for generations. It therefore called on the Edo State Government, under the leadership of the governor, to take immediate and decisive action over the incident.
The group noted that the governor had publicly pledged to protect all residents, including northerners, and urged him to uphold that commitment, stressing that it would hold him accountable for ensuring the safety of the Hausa community in Edo Central and beyond.
Furthermore, the CNG demanded immediate compensation for the affected traders, noting that the loss of livestock was not only a financial setback but also an emotional and cultural injury.
“It is imperative that the affected traders receive restitution for their losses as a step toward healing the rifts unjustly widened by this attack,” the group said.
The coalition also called for calm and restraint among members of the Hausa community while assuring that it would engage local leaders in dialogue to address the grievances and promote mutual understanding.
The CNG reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the rights and interests of the Hausa community and warned that it would not hesitate to take further action if necessary.
It concluded by calling on all stakeholders to condemn the violence and work toward a peaceful resolution that respects the dignity and equality of every Nigerian, regardless of ethnic background.