In a decisive move to address the growing insecurity in Nigeria’s North-West region, Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has ordered the Chief of Defence Staff and other top military officials to relocate to Sokoto State.
This relocation aims to enhance the government’s counter-insurgency efforts against banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism that have been rampant in the region.
The directive was announced in a statement by Henshaw Ogubike, the Director of Information and Public Relations for the Ministry of Defence. According to the statement, the government’s action is part of an intensified strategy to rid the North-West of criminal activities that have plagued states such as Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina, and Kebbi. The move comes amidst widespread public outrage following the release of a viral video showing bandits celebrating the capture of a Nigerian military armored vehicle.
Minister Matawalle emphasized the government’s sorrow over the escalating activities of terrorists and bandits, underscoring the commitment to restoring peace and security to the affected areas. He vowed that the military operations in the region would directly target notorious bandit leaders like Bello Turji, aiming to dismantle their networks and restore order.
“The Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, has expressed his deep concern over the activities of terrorists and bandits terrorizing Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina, and Kebbi States. In response, he has directed the Chief of Defence Staff and other military leaders to relocate to Sokoto, the headquarters for military operations in the region, to intensify efforts to eradicate these threats,” the statement read.
Matawalle stated that he, along with the top military brass, will be on the ground in the North-West to oversee and coordinate the operations. He reassured residents that the military is fully committed to neutralizing threats and ensuring the safety and freedom of the people. The minister called on citizens in the affected states to remain vigilant and cooperate with security forces, reiterating the government’s dedication to protecting lives and properties.
The government’s commitment to this fight is further reflected in its decision to deploy all necessary resources to the region. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has been actively supporting these military initiatives to bring an end to the violence and unrest. Matawalle stressed that increased and consistent military operations would be conducted to dismantle the strongholds of these criminal elements.
“This strategic move demonstrates the government’s unwavering resolve to restore peace and security. The time is up for these bandits and terrorists; our operations will be relentless and comprehensive,” Matawalle declared.
The minister’s presence in the region alongside military leaders aims to boost morale and ensure that the security forces have the necessary leadership and support to succeed in their mission. He assured the people of Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina, Kebbi, and the entire North-West that no effort would be spared to achieve lasting peace.
As the security forces prepare to launch an intensified campaign against the bandits, the government is sending a clear message: the era of terror in the North-West is nearing its end, and the safety and well-being of the citizens remain the utmost priority.
