Abdulaziz Sulaiman, Spokesperson for the Northern Elders Forum (NEF), explained in an interview with Vanguard why northerners have shown greater engagement in this protest compared to the last one.

Sulaiman attributed the increased involvement to the severe hunger, marginalization, and pervasive poverty affecting the North. He observed that the protests have garnered widespread support, with citizens from various regions actively participating to combat food insecurity and rising living costs.

Sulaiman elaborated, “Although the NEF has not yet formally addressed this issue, it’s evident that the current hunger protests resonate deeply in the North. The region has long struggled with significant poverty and insecurity, with many communities finding it difficult to obtain regular, nutritious food.”

He highlighted several critical factors contributing to the North’s strong participation:

• High Poverty and Insecurity: The North has historically experienced high levels of poverty and insecurity, affecting many residents’ ability to access basic food supplies.
• Impact on Smallholder Farmers: Smallholder farmers in the region have suffered due to insurgent and bandit activities, which have reduced crop yields and disrupted livelihoods.
• Food Shortages and Rising Prices: Ongoing food shortages and escalating food prices have increased frustration and desperation among northern residents.
• Historical Marginalization: Persistent neglect by successive governments, coupled with inadequate infrastructure, healthcare, and educational opportunities, has led to widespread disillusionment and anger among the region’s youth.

Sulaiman emphasized that the North’s active involvement in the protest reflects a broader sense of dissatisfaction with government priorities and a pressing demand for immediate action to address the region’s ongoing crises.