By Muhammad Mamman
A northern youth group in Nigeria has issued a stern warning to authorities in Edo State, alleging the killing of northerners and threatening reprisals if the violence continues.
The warning was issued by a leader of the Arewa Youths, who accused individuals in Edo State of targeting residents of northern extraction and called on the state and federal governments to act swiftly to prevent further bloodshed.
“Stop killing northerners in Edo State before we start retaliating in the North,” the youth leader said, in remarks that have sparked concern over the potential for wider communal violence.
The group urged security agencies to investigate the alleged killings and ensure those responsible are brought to justice, stressing that failure to do so could inflame tensions between communities in different parts of the country.
Nigeria has a long history of intercommunal and regional tensions, often triggered by disputes over land, politics or identity, with youth groups frequently acting as vocal pressure blocs. Analysts warn that retaliatory rhetoric risks escalating isolated incidents into broader cycles of violence.
As of the time of reporting, the Edo State government and security agencies had not publicly responded to the allegations. Human rights advocates have repeatedly called on political and community leaders to avoid inflammatory statements and instead pursue dialogue and lawful means to address grievances.
The development comes amid renewed calls for stronger protection of lives and property across Nigeria, as authorities grapple with persistent security challenges nationwide.
