Amina Anebi, Kaduna
The President of the Southern Kaduna Peoples Union (SOKAPU), Engr. Samuel Tabara Kato, has called on youths across Kaduna State, particularly those in Kudenden community, to embrace unity, peace and responsible conduct, while avoiding acts capable of threatening societal harmony.
Engr. Tabara Kato, who was represented by the Vice President of the union, Comrade Haruna Solomon, made the call shortly after the monthly general meeting of the Kudenden branch of SOKAPU held on Sunday at Government Secondary School, Kudenden in Kaduna.
He explained that SOKAPU remains the foremost socio-cultural umbrella body representing more than 65 indigenous ethnic groups in Southern Kaduna, with a major focus on protecting community interests, promoting security and advancing development across the region.
According to him, there is a growing need for stronger cooperation among youths, especially those in rural communities, to ensure peaceful coexistence and sustainable development.
Engr. Tabara warned youths against allowing themselves to be manipulated by politicians, particularly as political activities begin to intensify ahead of future elections.
“I know what is happening presently. There is political tension and some elites often use our youths for activities they would never allow their own children to engage in. This negatively influences them and pushes them into actions that are not expected of responsible citizens,” he said.
He stressed that SOKAPU is committed to promoting peace and encouraging youths to remain law-abiding citizens by avoiding actions contrary to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
The SOKAPU president further urged youths across Kaduna State not to engage in acts capable of tarnishing the image of the union, describing members of the organisation as peace-loving citizens dedicated to lawful conduct and community development.
Also speaking, the Sarkin Samari of Kudenden, Pastor Wilson Ayuba Shetima Gbaji, said the gathering was aimed at strengthening unity among the diverse ethnic groups residing in the community.
He noted that elders in the area have a responsibility to guide younger generations towards positive behaviour and discourage involvement in criminality and other social vices.
“We came from different tribes and cultural backgrounds, but we must continue to live together as one family in peace and unity. Our duty as elders is to encourage the youths to support community development and stay away from evil acts,” he said.
Pastor Gbaji also encouraged youths to always speak out on challenges affecting them in order to enable community leaders seek solutions, rather than remaining silent.
He added that the community leadership has continued to explore employment opportunities and support initiatives aimed at improving the welfare of young people in the area.
Speaking further, Chairman of the Kudenden branch of SOKAPU, Comrade Jeremy Job, expressed concern over what he described as neglect of the community by politicians, especially outside election periods.
According to him, residents of Kudenden have largely relied on self-help initiatives to carry out community development projects due to lack of government support.
Comrade Jeremy disclosed that members of the union, alongside community executives, organise monthly sanitation and community service activities every third Saturday of the month, including road clearing and other humanitarian support efforts.
“If we do not come out to help ourselves, nobody will do it for us. That is why we have continued to contribute towards improving our community,” he said.
He further stated that youths in Kudenden are now more politically conscious and determined not to allow themselves to be misled by politicians.
“Our Permanent Voter Cards are our strength. We will support only leaders who remember and support our community,” he added.