Defence Ministry Moves to Crush Banditry in North West Nigeria

Emmanuel Daudu

In a bold and unprecedented move, the Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, is set to personally lead a major military campaign against the rising tide of banditry and terrorism in North West Nigeria.

Dr. Matawalle, alongside the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) and other top military leaders, will relocate to Sokoto to oversee the operation aimed at reclaiming the region from the grip of terror.

The decision follows an alarming increase in attacks by bandits and terrorist groups in Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina, and Kebbi states.

Dr. Matawalle did not mince words in expressing his frustration with the current situation.

“We cannot tolerate this any longer,” he declared, as he unveiled the Federal Government’s plan to intensify efforts to flush out criminal elements that have wreaked havoc across the region.

This move signals a shift in the government’s approach to security in the North West.

The deployment of military chiefs to the region’s epicenter in Sokoto, the headquarters of the General Officer Commanding (GOC) for Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina, and Kebbi states, marks a renewed determination by the government to end the scourge of banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism.

According to Dr. Matawalle, “We will be on the ground, leading our brave men and women in uniform, to ensure that these bandits and terrorists are flushed out once and for all.”

The Minister’s hands-on approach underscores his commitment to restoring peace and security to the region.

He has directed the CDS and other military leaders to leave no stone unturned in dismantling the networks of notorious bandit leaders like Bello Turji, whose gang has terrorized the region for months.

The urgency of the government’s response is fueled by a recent incident in Kwashabawa, Zurmi Local Government Area of Zamfara State, where bandits filmed a Nigerian military armoured vehicle stuck in a waterlogged area. The footage, which has since gone viral, shows bandits celebrating around the vehicle after Nigerian troops were forced to withdraw to avoid an ambush.

Dr. Matawalle described the incident as “unacceptable,” emphasizing that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration is deeply committed to providing robust support to the Armed Forces in their fight against these criminal elements.

Dr. Matawalle reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to deploying all necessary assets to eradicate the menace of banditry and terrorism.

“We must act decisively to restore peace and allow our people to move freely,” he stated.

“The time is up for these bandits and terrorists. We are determined to weaken their bases through increased and consistent military operations.”

Sources close to the Defence Ministry indicate that this operation will involve a comprehensive strategy, including aerial surveillance, ground offensives, and intelligence-driven strikes. The presence of top military brass in the North West is expected to significantly bolster the morale of troops and enhance coordination in combating these threats.

As the military gears up for action, Dr. Matawalle also called on the people of Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina, and Kebbi states to remain vigilant and cooperate fully with security forces.

“We are here to protect the lives and properties of all Nigerians,” he said. “The security and well-being of the people are our top priority, and we will not relent until peace is fully restored.”

The Minister’s presence in the region is seen as a morale booster for the security forces and a clear message to the bandits that the government is prepared to take any measures necessary to bring about lasting peace.

With the Defence Minister and military chiefs on the ground, the coming days will likely see a significant escalation in military operations across the North West. Residents are advised to remain alert, cooperate with security personnel, and report any suspicious activities to the authorities. The government’s resolve to end the threat posed by bandits and terrorists is stronger than ever, and the countdown has begun for those who continue to challenge the state’s authority.

This operation could be a game-changer in the fight against insecurity in Nigeria’s North West, and it signals a new chapter in the government’s determination to safeguard the lives and properties of its citizens.

All eyes are now on Sokoto, where a decisive blow against banditry and terrorism is about to be delivered.