The Federal Government has mandated the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, along with other top military officials, to relocate to Sokoto State. This move aims to address the escalating issues of banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism plaguing the North-West region.
Henshaw Ogubike, Director of Information and Public Relations at the Ministry of Defence, announced the directive in a statement. This step is part of a broader strategy to combat the rampant criminal activities affecting the North-Western states.
The government expressed its dismay over the increasing violence from terrorists and bandits and emphasized that this decision highlights its firm resolve to restore security in the region.
The statement revealed that the officials will oversee operations and work towards eliminating criminal gangs such as Bello Turji and his group. Recently, videos surfaced showing bandits celebrating after capturing a Nigerian Army Armoured Personnel Carrier that had become trapped in a waterlogged area. The military had to withdraw to avoid an ambush, a situation that has heightened concerns.
The incident, which occurred in Kwashabawa, Zurmi Local Government Area of Zamfara, has been described as unacceptable by the government. President Bola Tinubu’s administration has been actively supporting the Armed Forces, and the Federal Government remains committed to deploying all necessary resources to address the threat posed by these criminal elements.
Authorities assured residents of Sokoto, Katsina, Zamfara, Kebbi, and the broader North-West region that security forces will exert all efforts to clear the area of bandits and restore peace.
