The recent “peace deals” with bandits have brought to the fore the disturbing reality of the almajiri system in Northern Nigeria. These young faces, touted as “repentant” bandits, are often products of a system that has failed them. The almajiri system, masquerading as a traditional Islamic education model, has morphed into a breeding ground for desperation, exploitation, and radicalization.
The facts are stark: underfed, malnourished, diseased, and illiterate, these children are primed for recruitment into armed groups. The system perpetuates a cycle of poverty, ignorance, and violence. It’s a ticking time bomb, threatening not just the North, but the entire nation.
The Jonathan administration’s attempt to address this issue was met with fierce resistance. The Emir of Kano, Sanusi Lamido, faced similar backlash for speaking out against the almajiri menace. Today, we face the consequences: terrorism, kidnapping, and insecurity.
The Federal Government’s inaction is deliberate, and Northern elders’ silence is complicity. Religious beliefs and political interests cannot justify ignoring this humanitarian crisis. Nigeria’s future hangs in the balance. We cannot afford to wait.
The government must prioritize education, economic empowerment, and social welfare. Traditional rulers must prioritize their people’s welfare over political interests. The almajiri system requires urgent reform.
Nigeria’s silence on this issue is deafening. We must act now to prevent further devastation. The nation demands accountability and action.
The kids involved in such a horrific event should be a dear concern to any well meaning Nigerian. The time for excuses is over; the time for action is now.
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