Late in the night of February 17, 2024, the Tashan Ice Community in the Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State found itself on the brink of another potential tragedy. A group of nine youths, riding ominously on bikes, stirred fears of banditry and kidnapping among the villagers. Yet this evening would not end in despair; instead, it would become a testament to the power of proactive community defense, facilitated by the Early Warning Early Response (EWER) system established by Equal Access International (EAI). Kajuru Local Government, like many others in the region, has struggled with the scourge of insecurity; kidnappings, banditry, intercommunal conflicts, and even organ harvesting are common. However, over four years, EAI has been diligently collaborating with community members across the Northwest and Northcentral regions on the principles of EWER. 

On this night as on many others, Mr. Shafi’u Muhammad, a dogged member of the Tashan Ice Community, was prepared with the knowledge and skills imparted by EAI, especially on community vigilance, safety, and security. Mr. Muhammad’s keen eye detected the suspicious movement of the youths, immediately recognizing the potential threat they posed. Without hesitation, he sprang into action, alerting the Divisional Police Officer of Kasuwan Magani, who in turn escalated the early warning to the Kaduna State Police Command. The response was swift and coordinated. The Nigerian Police Force, in tandem with other security agencies including the Nigerian Security Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and local security groups such as the Kaduna Vigilante Service (KADVIS), mobilized to intercept the impending danger.

Through their concerted efforts and the timely intervention guided by the EWER system, the attack on the Tashan Ice Community was averted by strategically stationing security personnel, sparing its residents from harm and anguish. Still, while one community celebrated its narrow escape, another within the Kajuru Local Government fell victim to the bandits’ nefarious intentions. This sobering reality underscores the ongoing challenges faced by these vulnerable communities. However, amidst that night’s threat, the story of Tashan Ice stands as a beacon of hope. This illustrates a comparative account of violence prevention wherein implementing EWER intervention resulted in averting potential violence. Specifically, EAI’s established EWER Groups facilitated the timely response from the Police and other security operatives in Kajuru LGA, thereby preventing an impending attack by bandits that saved lives and properties in the Tashan Ice community. 

Hours later, as the sun rose early on February 18th, 2024, the community members stood resolute, their unity strengthened by triumph. They are a living testament to what can be achieved when communities are empowered with the tools to detect, respond to, and ultimately prevent acts of violence. With vigilance, cooperation, and the guidance of the EWER system, they altered the narrative of insecurity, paving the way for a safer and more prosperous future.