A coalition of student and youth associations in Gombe State has condemned the recent killing of a young man, Amadi Kasiran, by suspected thugs believed to be members of the notorious “Kalare boys.”
The groups have called on security agencies to take urgent and decisive action to curb the growing menace of violent youth gangs in the state.
At a joint press conference held in Gombe on Tuesday, student leaders under the aegis of the Joint Campus Committee (JCC) of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Gombe Axis, voiced their frustration over the deteriorating security situation.
“The peace that Gombe State has long enjoyed is now under threat,” said Usman Wakili, Chairman of the NANS JCC in Gombe. “We urge all security agencies to act swiftly and decisively to dismantle these criminal gangs. The safety of our communities and campuses must be prioritized.”
The press conference brought together a broad spectrum of student and youth leaders, including Fatima Malami, Chairperson of the Association of Female Students; Tabitha Babayo, President of the National Association of Female Comrades; Muazu Hina, Chairman of the Northern Leaders Forum; Muhammed Yarima Garba, Treasurer of NANS; Magudu, Chairman of the Students’ Union Government (SUG) Presidential Forum in Gombe; and Alamin Muhammed Bako, National President of the Gombe State Students’ Association.
The coalition expressed deep concern over what they described as the re-emergence of the Kalare boys, a gang long associated with political thuggery and violence in the state.
“The killing of Amadi Kasiran is not just tragic—it is a warning signal,” said Fatima Malami. “We cannot afford to slip back into the era of fear and insecurity. We demand protection for all residents, especially students who are vulnerable.”
In a show of unity, the student leaders also used the occasion to address the planned nationwide protest slated for June 12, 2025—Democracy Day. They unequivocally distanced themselves from the protests, warning students across the state not to participate in any action that could result in unrest or disrupt academic activities.
“We are appealing to all students in Gombe State to remain calm and avoid involvement in the planned June 12 protests,” said Tabitha Babayo. “Our focus should remain on education and academic progress. We will not be part of any disruptive activities.”
Magudu, speaking on behalf of the SUG Presidential Forum, added, “No grievance should lead us into actions that could derail our academic calendar or destabilise our peaceful state. Education remains our top priority.”
The coalition warned against the political manipulation of students and urged them to resist being used as instruments of violence or civil disobedience.
“Our message is clear: we reject violence, we reject political exploitation, and we stand for peace and progress,” said Alamin Muhammed Bako.
While reaffirming their commitment to security, academic excellence, and responsible citizenship, the group added, “We are not just students—we are future leaders. We must set an example of peaceful engagement and constructive dialogue.
