Matawalle, Chief of Defence Staff, and Service Chiefs to Lead Operation Against Bandits in North West

By Harriet Tornguvan 

"We can't tolerate this anymore," says the Minister.

The Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, has voiced his deep concern over the ongoing activities of terrorists and bandits in Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina, Kebbi States, and their surrounding areas. 

Dr. Matawalle has instructed the Chief of Defence Staff, along with other military leaders, to join him in Sokoto, which serves as the headquarters for military operations in the affected states. This move is part of a broader strategy by the Federal Government to eliminate banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism in the North West region.

This strategic decision reflects the government's unwavering commitment to restoring peace and security in the region. While on the ground, the Defence Minister, along with the military chiefs, will oversee operations aimed at neutralizing notorious bandit leaders like Bello Turji and dismantling their networks. 

The Minister said, recently, videos surfaced showing bandits celebrating around a Nigerian military armored vehicle that got stuck in a waterlogged area in Kwashabawa, Zurmi Local Government Area of Zamfara State. 

He stated, tthat the videos depict the bandits taunting the military, a situation Dr. Matawalle has deemed it unacceptable, especially given President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's strong support for the Nigerian Armed Forces.

He emphasized that the Federal Government is gravely concerned about the persistent threat posed by these criminal elements in the North West. 

"We are prepared to deploy all necessary resources to ensure these criminals are eradicated and peace is restored to our communities

"Time is running out for these terrorists

He added that increased and sustained military operations will weaken their strongholds. 

Drr. Matawalle called on the Nigerian Armed Forces to intensify efforts to flush out the bandits and terrorists, assuring the people of Sokoto, Katsina, Zamfara, and Kebbi States that no effort will be spared in the fight for peace.

"I will be on the ground in the North West, alongside the Chief of Defence Staff and other military chiefs, leading our brave men and women in uniform," he affirmed.

Additionally, Dr. Matawalle urged the residents of Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina, and Kebbi States to remain vigilant and cooperate with security forces. He reiterated the Federal Government's commitment to safeguarding the lives and properties of all Nigerians, emphasizing that the security and well-being of the people remain the government's top priority.