Defence Minister, military chiefs to relocate to Sokoto to combat banditry, terrorism in North-West

In a decisive move to address the escalating security challenges in Nigeria’s North-West, the Federal Government has directed the Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Matawalle, along with other top military officials, to relocate to Sokoto State to lead efforts in eradicating the menace of banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism in the region.

This directive was announced in a statement by Mr. Henshaw Ogubike, Director of Information and Public Relations at the Ministry of Defence.

The government’s decision comes as part of a broader and intensified strategy to restore peace and security across the North-West, which has been severely impacted by the activities of armed groups.

The Federal Government expressed deep concern over the continued violence perpetrated by terrorists and bandits in Sokoto and neighboring states.

The deployment of top defense officials to the region is seen as a strong demonstration of the government’s commitment to ending the crisis and ensuring the safety of residents.

While in the North-West, Minister Matawalle and the military leadership will oversee ongoing operations aimed at dismantling the networks of notorious bandit leaders, including Bello Turji, and their gangs.

The government has reiterated its resolve to flush out these criminal elements and restore stability to the region.

“These criminal 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,” Matawalle said.

He added that there was an 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 the 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. (NAN)