Northern elders have raised fresh concerns over rising misinformation linked to political actors in the North, warning that such behaviour threatens the fragile security atmosphere in the region.
The group issued this warning after its annual general meeting held in Birnin Kebbi, where members reviewed the security situation and assessed the conduct of political leaders who, they said, have been making reckless statements capable of worsening national tension.
During the briefing, the National Coordinator, Malam Yusuf Abubakar, faulted a recent comment credited to former Senator Kabiru Marafa of Zamfara State, who reportedly urged the United States government to intervene militarily in Nigeria.
The elders described the remark as hostile, careless, and completely out of line with the duties expected of any responsible political figure.
According to Abubakar, no nation should tolerate such open invitation for foreign intervention, especially at a time security agencies are intensifying operations across several troubled zones.
He noted that comments like this only dampen morale, mislead the public, and give room for conspiracy theories that can disrupt peace efforts.
The elders said they were particularly disturbed by the pattern of false information circulating in Zamfara and Katsina, adding that certain politicians allegedly push exaggerated narratives of violence for personal political gain.
They insisted that the Department of State Services (DSS) must investigate the individuals involved to determine whether their actions amount to sabotage.
Abubakar stated that the North is already overstretched by insecurity, and the last thing the region needs is misinformation that fuels panic among citizens.
He urged governors, lawmakers, and community leaders to concentrate on policies that reduce poverty, improve local intelligence gathering, and rebuild trust between security agencies and residents.
The group also rejected the renewed campaign calling for the removal of Deputy Defence Minister, Bello Matawalle.
According to them, such demands are unnecessary distractions at a time when security structures require stability and coordinated leadership.
They commended the Federal Government for ongoing military operations in the North-West, particularly recent advances recorded by troops in hard-hit communities.
Traditional rulers and religious leaders were encouraged to step up community-based peace initiatives, which the elders believe remain an important pillar in restoring order.
The communiqué concluded with a reminder that Nigeria’s security challenges will only be solved if political actors stop weaponising information and start supporting the collective fight against banditry, kidnapping, and violent extremism.