A coalition of socio-political advocacy groups under The Rebirth Group (TRG) and affiliates of the Concerned Citizens for Restructured Nigeria (CCRN) has strongly condemned the practice of negotiating with criminal elements, insisting that Nigeria’s security challenges require structural reforms rather than dialogue with armed groups.

Speaking during a working visit to Ibadan, Mohammed Lawal, Zonal Leader of TRG North West and President of the Rescue Northern Nigeria Movement, said insecurity in the country can only be effectively addressed through restructuring and systemic reform.

Lawal, who led other members of the delegation, including Abubakar Hamidu Ladan and Hajia Mariam, said the group was in Ibadan to present its activity report and reaffirm support for ongoing restructuring advocacy.

According to him, Nigeria must be redefined as a country built on consent, justice, mutual respect and negotiated coexistence among its diverse populations.

“Rebirth and restructuring remain the solution to insecurity in Nigeria. We condemn the practice of negotiating with terrorists. Priority should be given to restructuring rather than focusing on elections. Let us return the country to the parliamentary system of government,” Lawal said.

He also advocated a regional governance structure, proposing the creation of a Rima Region comprising Sokoto, Kebbi, Zamfara and parts of Niger State, to be known as the Sokeza Region.

He further suggested a Dalla Region covering Kano, Katsina, Jigawa and parts of Kaduna State, arguing that such decentralisation would strengthen security response and promote sustainable development.

Lawal maintained that regional autonomy would enable communities to better manage resources, protect their territories and respond more effectively to insecurity.

He reiterated that Nigeria must urgently renegotiate its union in the interest of peace, stability and national survival, warning against continued reliance on what he described as a failing system.

Also speaking, Abubakar Hamidu Ladan, President of the Northern Hausa Council, urged citizens and leaders to adopt proactive measures in addressing insecurity.

“Don’t wait for the problem,” he said.

Maryam Umar, Deputy Chairman of the Sokeza Fulani Movement, also aligned with calls for reforms aimed at improving governance and security outcomes.

In his remarks, Convener of The Rebirth Group, Deacon Owolabi Oladejo, said Nigeria’s current structure requires urgent overhaul, stressing that equity cannot exist without fairness in governance systems.

“A system that does not allow you to protect yourself is not a good system,” he said.

The groups jointly called on Nigerians, particularly northern stakeholders, to embrace what they described as a movement of “action, courage and rebirth,” insisting that restructuring remains the only viable path to national stability.