In response to the escalating violence from terrorists and bandits in the North West, particularly in Zamfara, Sokoto, and Kebbi States, Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, the Minister of State for Defence, has called for a shift in the military command structure to the North West to tackle the worsening security situation.
Recent reports reveal that bandits have been attacking villages in Sokoto and Zamfara states, abducting numerous individuals, and killing those who cannot pay ransom. A disturbing viral video had emerged showing bandits capturing a Nigerian Army Mine-Resistant Armored Personnel Carrier (MRAP).
On Sunday, Mr. Henshaw Ogubike, the Director of Media and Public Relations for the Ministry of Defence, released a statement where Matawalle voiced serious concern over the ongoing terrorist and bandit activities in Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina, and Kebbi States.
Matawalle condemned the circulation of videos depicting a Nigerian military armored vehicle trapped in a waterlogged area. The vehicle was abandoned after military officers withdrew to avoid an ambush in Kwashabawa, Zurmi Local Government Area of Zamfara State.
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In response, Matawalle has instructed the Chief of Defence Staff and other senior military leaders to relocate to Sokoto, which serves as the headquarters for the General Officer Commanding (GOC) for Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina, and Kebbi states. This move is part of the Federal Government’s intensified efforts to combat banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism in the North West.
“This strategic move underscores the government’s unwavering commitment to restoring peace and security in the region. While in the North West, they will supervise operations and ensure that Bello Turji and his bandit gang are eliminated,” the statement asserts.
Matawalle emphasized that the ongoing circulation of videos showing military vehicles in the hands of bandits is unacceptable, particularly given the support provided by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
The Federal Government remains deeply concerned about the persistent threat from banditry and terrorism in the North West. Matawalle assured that all necessary resources would be allocated to eradicate these criminal elements and restore peace to the affected communities.
“We must act decisively against these terrorists to allow our people to live freely. The time is up for these bandits and terrorists as increased and consistent operations will weaken all their bases,” Matawalle declared.
He urged the Armed Forces of Nigeria to intensify efforts to eliminate bandits and terrorists, assuring the residents of Sokoto, Katsina, Zamfara, and Kebbi states, as well as the entire North West region, that security forces will leave no stone unturned until peace is restored.
“I will be on the ground in the North West with the CDS and other military chiefs, leading our brave men and women in uniform,” Matawalle affirmed.
The minister also called on the people of Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina, and Kebbi states to stay vigilant and support security forces. He reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to protecting the lives and properties of all Nigerians, emphasizing that the security and well-being of the populace remain the government’s top priority.
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