- Defence Minister Matawalle and military chiefs relocate to Sokoto to address rising banditry and terrorism in North-West Nigeria
- Matawalle vows to oversee operations to eliminate notorious bandit leader Bello Turji and restore peace in affected states
The Federal Government has directed Dr. Bello Matawalle, the Minister of State for Defence, and other military chiefs, to relocate to Sokoto State to address the rising issues of banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism in the North-West region.
This directive, issued by Mr. Henshaw Ogubike, Director of Information and Public Relations at the Ministry of Defence, is part of a broader strategy to combat the growing insecurity in the area.
The government expressed deep concern over the increasing activities of terrorists and bandits, emphasizing that this move demonstrates their unwavering commitment to restoring peace and security.
Matawalle, in his statement, emphasized that during their time in the North-West, they would oversee military operations to dismantle the bandit gangs led by Bello Turji.
He highlighted a recent incident where bandits had circulated a video showing a Nigerian military armoured vehicle stuck in a waterlogged area. The video, taken after the military had withdrawn to avoid an ambush, was used by the bandits to mock the situation.
“This incident occurred in Kwashabawa, Zurmi Local Government Area in Zamfara,” Matawalle noted. “This is unacceptable as President Bola Tinubu has been giving great support to the Armed Forces of Nigeria.”
Matawalle stressed the government’s commitment to deploying all necessary resources to eliminate these criminal elements and restore peace. He assured the people of Sokoto, Katsina, Zamfara, and Kebbi states that the security forces would be relentless in their operations.
“I will be on the ground in the North-West with the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) and other military chiefs, leading our brave men and women in uniform,” he stated. He also called on residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with the security forces, reaffirming that the government’s top priority is protecting all Nigerians’ lives and property.