ACF decries attacks on northern truck drivers in south-east, warns of national crisis

The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has raised concerns over the ongoing attacks on truck drivers transporting goods from the North to the South East, allegedly carried out by members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Professor Tukur Muhammad-Baba, the ACF described the assaults as a major threat to national stability, warning that they could escalate into widespread chaos if not urgently addressed.

“These attacks pose a serious danger to the unity and security of the country,” the statement read.

“If this lawlessness is not stopped, it could lead to a breakdown of order, with devastating consequences for the nation.”

The group condemned what it termed “vicious and unprovoked assaults” on truck drivers, revealing that several have lost their lives, while vehicles and goods have been destroyed or looted.

“These violent acts are being executed brazenly by gunmen and gun-women who openly identify with terror groups such as IPOB and the Eastern Security Network (ESN), specifically targeting northerners and their property,” the ACF stated.

The forum also criticized security agencies and the federal government for their inaction, questioning why such attacks have been allowed to persist.

“It is unacceptable that such atrocities continue unchecked while those responsible parade themselves openly,” the ACF said.

“The silence from relevant authorities is alarming and must end immediately.”

The statement further revealed that the National Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO) and the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) recently staged protests in Jos, Plateau State, expressing outrage over the deaths of over 50 truck drivers and the destruction of nearly 100 trailers over the past eight years.

“These transport workers have suffered immensely,” the forum noted. “If urgent steps are not taken, they may be left with no choice but to suspend the movement of goods to and from the South-East.”

The ACF extended its condolences to the victims’ families and called for immediate action against the perpetrators.

“We urge security agencies to apprehend those responsible and bring them to justice,” the statement read.

Additionally, the group demanded that the governments of Enugu and Imo states compensate the victims for the losses they have suffered.

“It is only fair that those affected receive some form of restitution,” the ACF emphasized.

The forum also criticized the perceived silence of South-East political and socio-cultural leaders, urging them to publicly denounce the attacks.

“The lack of condemnation from leaders in the region is disturbing,” the ACF stated. “We call on them to speak out and work toward restoring peace.”

Concluding its statement, the ACF urged the federal government to take decisive action.

“No individual or group should be allowed to carry out such violent acts unchecked,” it warned.

“The government must declare a state of emergency on this matter before it spirals out of control.”