By Muhammad Mamman
A coalition of northern youth groups has issued a seven-day ultimatum to President Bola Tinubu, demanding an investigation into the activities of the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, or face mass protests across the region.
The coalition, operating under the banner of the Northern Youth Front for Justice and Development (NYFJD), made its position known during a press briefing in Kaduna at the weekend. The group accused the NSA’s office of alleged misconduct and what it described as “unfair treatment” of northern interests in recent security and administrative decisions.
Spokesperson of the coalition, Comrade Ibrahim Danladi, said the youths were frustrated by what they termed “growing marginalisation” and “a lack of transparency in national security management.”
“We are giving President Bola Ahmed Tinubu seven days to commence a full-scale investigation into the NSA’s activities,” Danladi declared. “If our demand is ignored, we will mobilise thousands of young people across northern states to stage peaceful demonstrations.”
The group further alleged that the office of the NSA had mishandled key national security issues, including intelligence sharing and recruitment processes within the security agencies. They claimed such actions have contributed to insecurity in some northern communities.
Political observers note that the development comes amid rising tension between sections of the North and the federal government over security appointments and counter-terrorism operations. The youth groups’ demand adds a new layer of pressure on President Tinubu, who has faced criticism over the distribution of key federal roles since assuming office.
Security analysts have cautioned against politicising security matters, warning that public protests could heighten regional tensions at a time when the government is working to address banditry and insurgency in the North.
Despite the warning, the coalition insists it will not back down until the presidency takes concrete action.
“We are not against the government,” the spokesperson added. “We only want fairness, accountability, and a more balanced approach to national security.”
As of Monday morning, the Presidency had yet to respond to the ultimatum, while calls and messages to the office of the National Security Adviser went unanswered.
