In response to a surge in attacks by criminal bandits in Nigeria’s North-West, President Bola Tinubu’s administration has mandated the Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Matawalle, along with key military leaders, to relocate to Sokoto State.
This directive aims to intensify efforts against the persistent threats of banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism in the region.
The spokesman for the Ministry of Defence, Mr. Henshaw Ogubike, announced the decision on Sunday. During this period of relocation, Dr. Matawalle will oversee military operations to ensure the elimination of notorious bandit leader Bello Turji and his gang.
“These criminal bandits have been circulating videos of a Nigerian military armoured vehicle stuck in a waterlogged area. Late in the night, officers were asked to withdraw to avoid ambush. The bandits later recorded a video celebrating the immobilized vehicle. This incident occurred in Kwashabawa, Zurmi Local Government Area in Zamfara,” the statement detailed.
Dr. Matawalle emphasized that such incidents are unacceptable, especially given President Tinubu’s strong support for the Armed Forces of Nigeria. “The Federal Government is deeply concerned about the persistent threat posed by banditry and terrorism in the North-West. We are prepared to deploy all necessary assets to eradicate these criminal elements and restore peace to our communities,” he said.
He stressed the urgency of moving against the terrorists to ensure the safety and freedom of local residents. “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 inspire our armed forces,” he added.
Dr. Matawalle assured the people of Sokoto, Katsina, Zamfara, Kebbi, and the entire North-West region that security forces would exhaust all efforts to eliminate the bandits. “I will be on the ground in the North-West with the Chief of Defence Staff and other military chiefs, leading our brave men and women in uniform,” he stated.
He urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security forces, reaffirming that the government is committed to safeguarding the lives and properties of all Nigerians. “The security and well-being of the people remain the government’s top priority,” Dr. Matawalle concluded.
