……Says Significant Success Recorded In North East Region
ABUJA: A Civil Society Organisation, Patriots for the Advancement of Peace and Social Development, has commended the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, for his efforts to combat banditry in Sokoto State.
Executive Director, Sani Shinkafi, disclosed this in a statement on Saturday.
Shinkafi, in the statement claimed that “Over the past three weeks, the military campaign against banditry in Nigeria’s North West has seen significant success, following President Bola Tinubu’s directive for key military leaders, including Matawalle, to intensify operations in the region.”
He also explained that “Recent military operations have neutralized numerous notorious armed bandits across Zamfara, Sokoto, Kebbi, Katsina, and Kaduna states, marking one of the most coordinated offensives in the country’s history.”
This is even as he added that the Minister of Defence-State, Matawalle, visited several local government areas, including Sabon Birnin and Goronyo, which are reportedly areas notorious for bandit activities and arms smuggling.
According to the statement, the military efforts have thrown key bandit leaders, such as Bello Turji, into disarray, forcing many to surrender or face severe consequences.
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“Dr. Matawalle’s commitment to eradicating these criminal elements is clear, with a focus on addressing issues like kidnapping, extortion, and violence that have plagued local communities for over 15 years.
“In light of these successes, calls have emerged for unity and support for military personnel, rather than distractions from political adversaries.
“The Patriots for Peace and Social Development emphasized that those undermining the military’s efforts—whether politicians, clerics, or traditional rulers—are inadvertently aiding the bandits.
“Dr. Matawalle, alongside Chief of Defence Staff General Christopher Musa and other military leaders, is being urged to receive prayers and encouragement as they navigate the complexities of restoring national security.
“The statement also criticized the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Zamfara for politicizing military operations, arguing that such actions only hinder the fight against banditry.
“The ongoing military operations are seen as a key part of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, aimed at restoring peace and safety across Nigeria. With over 30,000 bandit fighters estimated to be operating across 14 local governments in Zamfara, the urgency of the situation is clear.
As military operations continue, local leaders and citizens are called upon to unite in support of these efforts. With effective leadership and coordination, there is hope that banditry in the North West can be significantly reduced or eliminated, paving the way for a safer Nigeria for all.”
