Calling upon parents and guardians to lend their support to Governor Ahmadu Fintiri’s administration in tackling the rising insecurity issues in Adamawa State is a crucial step as emphasized by the state’s government.
The necessity for this plea has arisen due to the increase in attacks carried out by armed youth groups known as Shila boys within the state.
Speaking to reporters in Yola on Tuesday, Adamawa’s Deputy Governor, Prof. Kaletapwa Farauta-George, mentioned that the government is actively working towards resolving security challenges stemming from the harmful activities of youths who are using dangerous weapons to rob residents.
A concerning trend has emerged where youths armed with dangerous weapons, often operating on commercial tricycles known as Keke Marwa, have been causing havoc in numerous areas of the state.
Recently, the police arrested a 19-year-old individual named Usman Mohammed, believed to be the mastermind behind many robbery incidents linked to the Shila boys group.
This suspect, along with another accomplice who is currently on the run, violently robbed a woman of her phone using sharp cutlasses.
In a separate incident, an unidentified gang attacked church attendees on a Sunday morning, stealing the phones of more than 20 individuals.
Kaletapwa expressed Governor Fintiri’s disappointment in these occurrences, involving physically capable youths who instead of channeling their efforts into productive activities, have turned to criminal behaviors and other negative practices.
She emphasized the crucial role of parental intervention in addressing the security issue, highlighting the impact of parental guidance in steering young individuals away from criminal activities.
“The Governor of Adamawa State, Ahmadu Fintiri, specifically addresses our youth in light of the increased activities of Shila boys in certain local government areas. We implore our youth to utilize their energies for constructive endeavors that shape their future.
“The governor also appeals to parents not to overlook their children’s involvement in dishonorable acts. As responsible parents, we must exercise caution and provide the necessary guidance for our children to grow into future leaders.”
“Parents should ensure their children are in appropriate places at suitable times and refrain from engaging in illegal activities.”