The Northern Comrades Movement of Nigeria (NCMN) has issued a strong condemnation of the Arewa Think Tank (ATT) for its recent statement criticizing Mr. Peter Obi's remarks on the tragic stampede during a Christmas rice distribution event.
In a statement signed by its National Chairman, Mal. Jabir Ibrahim Yaro, NCMN described the ATT's comments as a diversionary tactic aimed at shielding the government from accountability. “The Arewa Think Tank is a relatively unknown organization in terms of service to humanity, and its sudden criticism of Mr. Peter Obi reeks of desperation and a lack of genuine concern for Nigerians' welfare,” Yaro said.
He emphasized that the tragic loss of over 70 lives, including 40 children, in the stampede highlights the devastating consequences of government failures. Mr. Obi's remarks, Yaro added, were a necessary critique of the systemic issues fueling hardship and desperation across the nation.
The NCMN urged ATT to redirect its focus toward holding the government accountable and advocating for policies that address poverty, insecurity, and systemic failures. “Rather than attacking Obi for speaking truth to power, ATT should work on addressing the root causes of these tragedies,” the statement read.
The group also criticized ATT Convener Muhammad Alhaji Yakubu for advising Mr. Obi to be "civic" in his criticisms, arguing that such comments downplay the urgency of confronting government failures. The NCMN accused ATT of attempting to absolve President Bola Tinubu’s administration of blame, asserting that its economic policies have worsened the hardships faced by millions of Nigerians, contributing to the desperation witnessed during the rice-sharing event.
The NCMN called on all stakeholders and government officials to prioritize safety and security at charitable events while working toward a more just and equitable society. “We condemn the Arewa Think Tank’s statement in the strongest terms and urge them to stop grandstanding and take concrete action to address the pressing challenges facing our nation,” the statement concluded.
United We Stand, Divided We Fall!
Comr. Ahmad Ashir,
National Secretary, NCMN