The Akume Tiv Youth Like-Minds (ATYLM) in Nasarawa State has condemned what it described as an attempt by some Kano leaders to intimidate the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, over the alleged delay in the release of the N5 billion Singer Market fire relief fund.
The group said it was disappointed by the recent visit of the delegation to the Office of the SGF, where they reportedly demanded the immediate release of the intervention fund for victims of the Singer Market fire incident in Kano State.
In a statement issued on Sunday in Lafia, the Secretary of the group, Comrade Jude Ityough, quoted the State Coordinator of ATYLM, Hon. Tabulo Cletus, as describing the action as "barbaric, uncivilised and contrary to democratic principles."
According to him, any attempt to pressure or intimidate the SGF outside established government procedures amounts to "a disregard of due process and constituted authority."
"Senator George Akume is a national leader serving the Federal Republic of Nigeria. He is committed to equitable service delivery to all Nigerians regardless of tribe, religion or region. His office operates on due process, transparency and the rule of law, not on threats or intimidation," Tabulo said.
While expressing sympathy for victims of the Singer Market fire, the group urged those aggrieved to channel their concerns through appropriate government institutions responsible for disaster relief rather than resort to confrontational approaches.
"We sympathise with the victims of the unfortunate fire incident in Kano. However, concerns regarding the relief fund should be pursued through the appropriate government channels. We cannot build a nation by bullying public office holders. If there are issues relating to the intervention fund, they should be addressed through lawful and institutional processes, not hostility," he added.
The group maintained that Akume has continued to discharge his responsibilities with integrity, humility and dedication since assuming office as SGF, stressing that he has remained committed to serving all Nigerians without ethnic, religious or regional bias.
It further noted that the SGF has consistently supported the implementation of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda through transparent and accountable governance.
ATYLM therefore called on the Kano leaders and other stakeholders to refrain from actions capable of escalating political tension, urging them instead to embrace dialogue, national unity and respect for due process.
The group also appealed to Nigerians to allow public institutions to perform their constitutional responsibilities without undue pressure, insisting that adherence to the rule of law remains essential for sustainable national development.
