In a decisive move to tackle unauthorised migration, Nigeria’s federal government has announced a nationwide crackdown on irregular migrants, effective from August 1.

The initiative is aimed at addressing concerns surrounding illegal immigration by urging those without valid documentation or overstaying their visas to legalise their status before the deadline. Authorities have made it clear that individuals who fail to comply will face arrest and deportation.

However, the government has reassured the public that enforcement measures will be conducted in a humane manner, with full respect for migrants’ rights.

A Northern youth group, Arewa Youth Council for Justice, has urged suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan to end the conversations that led to her suspension from the Senate by issuing an apology to the National Assembly.

The group took the stand in a statement made available to journalists on Thursday, signed by its National President, Isak Mammud and the National Secretary, Timothy Isaiah.

This came in reaction to the verbal war between Senator Onyekachi Nwebonyi representing Ebonyi Central and former Minister of Education, Oby Ezekwesili.

The youth group said the matter was assuming a disturbing dimension and should be brought to a close.

While accusing Senator Natasha of escalating a matter that should have been amicably resolved in the Senate within hours, the youths said if something was not done urgently, the matter could get to a more dangerous stage.

“What happened during the Senate Public Hearing could not have happened in the first place had Senator Natasha issued an apology to the Senate President and by extension the Senate a long time ago.

“It is sad that mere change of seating position has been dragged to such an extent that the reputation of Nigeria’s image abroad is being dented over a trivial matter, which was now blown out of proportion to the extent of alleging sexual harassment.

“We are troubled by the latest developments, including the shouting match during the public hearing, as well as the recall process against Senator Natasha.

“Indeed, the time had come for the Senator to heed the voice of reason by apologizing to the Senate President, whose image was unnecessarily attacked,” the group stated.

While commending Senator Akpabio for maintaining his cool all the while, the Arewa group noted that hiding under unfounded allegations to justify the flouting of Senate rules was totally condemnable.

“However, we appeal that should the Senator tender an unreserved apology, the Senate President, in his usual humility and peaceful disposition, should forgive her and allow her to be restored to the Senate.”