In a significant escalation of its efforts to combat the growing security challenges in Nigeria’s North-West, the Federal Government has ordered the Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Matawalle, and key military leaders to relocate to Sokoto State.
The directive, confirmed by the Ministry of Defence, is aimed at intensifying efforts to combat banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism in the region.
Dr. Matawalle will oversee military operations and ensure that notorious bandit leader Bello Turji and his gang are neutralized.
“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,” Dr. Matawalle said.
He explained that the relocation was necessary to address the escalating security challenges in the region. “These criminal bandits have been circulating videos of a Nigerian military Armoured vehicle that was stuck in a waterlogged 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 waterlogged area, recording video of the Armoured vehicle that was stuck and celebrating it.”
Dr. Matawalle emphasized the 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.”
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He 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.”