Federal Government has directed the Minister of State for Defence, Dr Bello Matawalle and the military chiefs to move to Sokoto State as it steps up operations in addressing insecurity in the North-west.
The directive came amid renewed armed banditry, kidnapping and terrorism in the North-west.
In a statement issued by Director of Information and Public Relations, Ministry of Defence, Mr Henshaw Ogubike, the Federal Government expressed sadness over the activities of terrorists and bandits in the states and its environs, explaining that the strategic move underscored the unwavering commitment of government to restoring peace and security in the region.
Matawalle, said that while in the North West, they would supervise operations and ensure that Bello Turji and his Bandits gang were flushed out.
He pointed out that bandits have been circulating videos of a Nigerian military Armoured vehicle that was stuck in a water logged area.
“And late in the night the officers were asked to withdraw to avoid being ambushed by bandits, later in the night the bandits went to the water logged area, recording video of the Armoured vehicle that was stuck and celebrating it.
“This incident happened in kwashabawa, Zurmi Local Government Area in Zamfara.
“This is not acceptable as President Bola Tinubu has been giving great support to the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
“The Federal Government is deeply concerned about the persistent threat posed by banditry and terrorism in the North West particularly.
“And so, we are ready to deploy all necessary assets to ensure that these criminal elements are flushed out and peace is restored to our communities”, the Minister said.
He added that there was the urgent need to move against the terrorists to enable people to move freely.
“The time is up for these bandits and terrorists as increased and consistent operations will weaken all their bases.
“I believe my presence in the North West will ginger our armed forces”, he also said.
Matawalle further assured the people of Sokoto, Katsina, Zamfara and Kebbi States and the entire North West region that the security forces would leave no stone unturned in flushing out the bandits.
“I will be on ground in the North West with the CDS and other military chiefs, leading our brave men and women in uniform.
“I also call on residents of these states to remain vigilant and cooperate with the security forces as the Federal Government has resolved to protect the lives and properties of all Nigerians.
“The security and well-being of the people remain the government’s top priority”, the Minister added.
It would be recalled that Alhaji Isa Muhammad Bawa, the Sarkin Gobir of Gatawa District in Sokoto State, was killed recently by his abductors
Bawa and his son were abducted on July 29 while traveling from Sokoto to Sabon Birni.
Days after the abduction, the kidnappers demanded a N1 billion ransom for their release.
Before the monarch was killed a video surfaced online showing the Emir pleading for his life in Hausa language.
In the video he was in dire condition and urged the government to intervene but was later killed by his captors.
Security situation was also bad in Katsina, Kaduna and Zamfara states where bandits are having their field day. Many security experts have fingered lapses on the side of security agencies..With this security marching order, in no distance time, the North West and the entire country may witness a turn around against bandits.
