Concerned Christian Youth Forum has called for speedy passage and implementation of the Armed Forests Guards Establishment Bill currently before the National Assembly to protect Nigerians.
Convener of the forum, Mr James Adama, made the call while addressing newsmen on the sidelines of a peaceful protest yesterday in Abuja.
He commended those who initiated the bill, saying that it would take the fight against insecurity to the criminals’ hideouts and dislodge them.
Adama said that with the passage and implementation of the bill, the attacks against religious bodies and their leaders, especially the Christian faith, would reduce.
“As Christian youths, we remain committed to peace and unity of the country,’’ he said.
The convener said that attacks on faith-based organisations present a dangerous form of discrimination that cannot be tolerated in a democracy that values religious freedom and diversity.
He, therefore, called on Nigerians, regardless of their belief, to support passage of the bill.
Adama also urged government to ensure that the right to religious freedom was upheld and protected for all citizens, regardless of their beliefs.
“We wish to use this opportunity to express our heartfelt gratitude to the Nigerian government for the forest guard initiative, which we believe will prove to be an effective tool in combating the security challenges our nation currently faces.
“The creation of this force is a step in the right direction, as it will provide a much-needed layer of protection for our communities and resources.
“We commend the government for taking this proactive measure and for demonstrating a commitment to safeguarding the safety and well-being of its citizens.
“While we applaud the government for its efforts to establish the forest guard, we also stress the importance of equipping these forces with necessary tools and resources to effectively defend our communities,’’ he said.
Adama stressed the need for the Forest Guard to be adequately armed and prepared to confront the perpetrators.
“They must be given the necessary training, equipment and support to prevent these vicious attacks which have left countless lives shattered and communities living in fear.
“Providing the guards with the needed tools will enable them to effectively combat this threat and this is the sure way we can begin to restore peace and security to our communities,” he said.