The three-time Commissioner for Rural and Community Development, Alhaji (Dr) Ilyasu Musa Kwankwaso, has commended the Federal Government for its directive to the Minister of Defence, Bello Matawalle, and other military chiefs to move to Sokoto State to combat banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism in the North-West.
Dr. Kwankwaso also called on the public to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commendable initiative and to provide valuable information necessary for the defence minister and other military officials.
Speaking with the press in Kano on Sunday, Dr. Kwankwaso urged the people of the North-West to cooperate with the defence minister and military chiefs to succeed in their challenging task of eliminating these threats to progress.
According to him, the directive is part of an intensified effort to address banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism in the North-West. He emphasised the need for the masses to pray for President Tinubu, the Minister of Defence, and the military personnel entrusted with the responsibility of curbing these acts of lawlessness.
Kwankwaso, an outspoken chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), expressed optimism that with the collective actions being taken by the Minister of Defence and military personnel, the end of armed banditry, kidnapping, and other criminal activities is within reach.
The urgent need to act against terrorists to enable free movement reflects President Tinubu’s government’s sincerity and commitment to ensuring the security of lives and property for all citizens.
Kwankwaso emphasised that “the time is up for these bandits and terrorists, as increased and consistent operations will weaken all their bases.”
It will be recalled that these criminal bandits circulated videos showing a Nigerian military armoured vehicle stuck in a waterlogged area. Late at night, officers were instructed to withdraw to avoid being ambushed by the bandits. Later, the bandits recorded a video of the stuck armoured vehicle and celebrated their perceived victory.
The Defence Minister stated that this incident occurred in Kwashabawa, Zurmi Local Government Area, Zamfara State. This situation is unacceptable, as President Bola Tinubu has been providing substantial support to the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
The Federal Government is deeply concerned about the persistent threat of banditry and terrorism in the North-West, particularly. “We are ready to deploy all necessary assets to ensure that these criminals are flushed out and peace is restored to our communities,” Mr Matawalle said.
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