Sokoto, Oct. 9, 2024 (TheGavel) – The Federal Government is intensifying efforts to eliminate bandits, terrorists, and other criminal groups terrorizing the Northwest region. This was disclosed by Dr. Bello Matawalle, the Minister of State for Defence, while speaking to journalists in Sokoto on Wednesday.
Matawalle is leading operations in the Northwest as part of President Bola Tinubu’s directive to military chiefs and other top officials to relocate to Sokoto and ensure the eradication of the criminal elements threatening the peace of the area.
“As directed by Mr. President, I am back in Sokoto State to coordinate the task of flushing out all bandits and other criminals,” Matawalle stated. He noted that significant achievements have already been recorded, with troops successfully neutralizing notorious gang leaders and their members across different locations. He highlighted that relative peace has been restored in Sokoto, Zamfara, and Katsina States.
Matawalle expressed confidence in the success of Operation Fansan Yamma, an ongoing military campaign aimed at tackling security threats in the Northwest. He reassured the people of the region that the government is fully committed to bringing an end to all forms of insecurity in the area.
“We will never leave you alone,” Matawalle said, pledging continued support for the military and security agencies to ensure victory over bandits and their supporters. He also acknowledged the sacrifices made by the troops and commended their gallantry.
Matawalle further praised Sokoto State Governor Ahmad Aliyu for his support of the operations and called on other governors, political leaders, clerics, and stakeholders to cooperate with the federal government’s initiatives.
He emphasized the importance of collaboration in using both kinetic (military force) and non-kinetic methods to dismantle criminal gangs. He also urged the media to avoid propagating narratives that support banditry, terrorism, and kidnapping activities.
Matawalle announced that he will also visit other Northwest states, including Katsina, Zamfara, and Kebbi, to assess the progress of the operations and gather additional support from local leaders.
This action follows President Tinubu’s August 31 directive to Matawalle and military chiefs to relocate to Sokoto to intensify efforts against banditry and terrorism in the region. On September 13, the Nigerian Air Force confirmed the death of a notorious terrorist kingpin, Halilu Sububu, and 38 of his associates, who had been responsible for terrorizing communities across Sokoto, Niger, and Kaduna States.
The federal government remains committed to eliminating the security challenges facing the region.(NAN)
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