The Southern and Middle Belt Leaders Forum ( SMBLF) ,on Wednesday in Abuja, condemned in its entirety, acts of banditry and terrorism inflicted on Nigerians and security operatives in Borno, Kebbi, Kaduna and Kwara states  within the last few days and called on government at all levels to rise up to the disturbing challenge.

The regional leaders specifically lamented the killing of Brigadier – General Uba Musa by Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists, in an ambush on Sunday in Damboa, Borno state, abduction of 25 school girls in Kebbi state on Monday and killing and abduction of worshippers at Christ Apostolic Church ( CAC ) in Eruku, Kwara state on Tuesday.

Briefing journalists after an emergency meeting held in Abuja  Wednesday, the spokesman of the forum and representative of Afenifere, Oba Olaitan, said  issues pertaining to the state of the nation and recent developments in the country that impinge on the sustenance of democracy as well as the economic and social development of Nigeria were dissected and far reaching resolutions made.

He said SMBLF noted with concern that despite the designation of Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern by the Trump administration and the attendant implications, insecurity continues to ravage large in the land, including the unfortunate recent killing of Brigadier General Uba Musa and his colleagues in Borno state.

“Even more brazen is the abduction of students from Government Girls Secondary School, Maga, Kebbi State.

“Other heightened incidents of insecurity were also reported in Kaduna State, including the killing of an abducted ECWA pastor, James Audu Issah, others in Kwara State and Kogi during this period.

“SMBLF therefore called  on the federal authorities to put  an immediate end to these violent acts of extremists hell bent on destabilizing the country.

“We convey our deepest condolences to the families of Gen. Uba Musa and his colleagues, as well as to the Nigeria Army at this challenging time.

“More importantly we urge the Federal Government to deploy maximum resources to rescue the abducted school girls. 

“SBMLF urges the federal government to take these developments most seriously and remain open to possible global partners, including the Americans with sincerity and not take unilateral actions,” the forum said.