Arewa’s Final Wake-Up Call: A Cry for Reform Amidst Chaos

When former Governor Fayose launched his attack against the North, blaming us for the economic challenges facing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (PBAT), I was enraged. I prepared a heated response, but it never came to fruition. The situation was somewhat alleviated when I heard his brother remind him of their familial ties. Yet, recent riots across the North have forced me to reconsider Fayose’s harsh words.

The recent turmoil—looting, destruction of property, bombings, and assaults on religious sites—has put Arewa’s darkest aspects on full display. The scenes were a jarring reminder of how far we’ve strayed from the moral and religious values we once held dear. Our society’s decay is evident: corruption is rampant, moral values have eroded, and our cultural identity seems to be nothing more than a distant memory.

Islamic teachings, which once guided us, now seem to exist only in words rather than actions. Our behavior has become increasingly violent, and we have fostered an environment where terrorism flourishes. From terror informants to drug abuse and corruption, our societal issues are deep and troubling. The youth are abandoned, and the elite, having gained power, have largely failed to invest meaningfully in the region’s development.

The North’s historical and recent leaders have had their share of power, yet the region remains impoverished. The elite’s ivory towers stand in stark contrast to the widespread squalor. The millions of out-of-school and unemployed youth represent a growing unrest that threatens to bring down the very structures that have failed them. Their discontent has led to symbolic gestures like raising foreign flags, reflecting their disillusionment with the current state of affairs.

Arewa stands at a crossroads. We must decide whether to confront these challenges with a spirit of reform or continue to deceive ourselves. Our problems are well-documented, and solutions are available. The time for change is now, and it must come from within. The Northern elite have a crucial role to play. If we fail to act, no one else will come to our rescue.

The region must awaken from its prolonged slumber and address its problems with creativity and productivity. As global capitalism rises, only those who adapt and act wisely will thrive. The economic hardships faced by every region of the federation highlight the urgency for reform. Despite food being cheaper in the North compared to the South, our preparedness has been lacking. This negligence has compounded our current difficulties.

If Arewa does not rise to its responsibilities, it risks facing further destruction. Waiting for a savior, whether in the form of PBAT or anyone else, is no longer an option. We must take charge of our destiny and work towards genuine improvement before it is too late. The future of Arewa depends on our collective will to enact real change and address the deep-rooted issues plaguing our society.