The Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle, has directed top military officials to relocate to Sokoto as part of an intensified effort to combat terrorism and banditry in Nigeria’s North West region. This move comes in response to ongoing violence perpetrated by terrorists and bandits in Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina, and Kebbi states.
In a recent statement, Dr. Matawalle expressed deep concern over the activities of these criminal groups and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to restoring peace and security in the affected areas. He emphasized that the deployment of the Chief of Defence Staff and other military leaders to Sokoto, the headquarters of the General Officer Commanding for the region, is a critical step in addressing the threats posed by banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism.
“The Federal Government is deeply concerned about the persistent threat posed by banditry and terrorism in the North West,” Dr. Matawalle stated. “We are ready to deploy all necessary assets to ensure that these criminal elements are flushed out and peace is restored to our communities.”
The Minister highlighted a recent incident in Kwashabawa, Zurmi Local Government Area of Zamfara State, where bandits circulated videos of a Nigerian military armored vehicle stuck in a waterlogged area. To avoid an ambush, military personnel withdrew from the location. The bandits later recorded themselves celebrating around the immobilized vehicle, an act that Dr. Matawalle described as unacceptable.
He emphasized the government’s readiness to enhance military operations in the region, declaring that the “time is up” for these criminal groups. Dr. Matawalle’s presence in the North West is intended to boost the morale of the Armed Forces and ensure a more aggressive approach to eliminating the bandit threat.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria must intensify their efforts to flush out the bandits and terrorists,” he urged. “My presence in the North West will motivate our forces, and I will be on the ground with the Chief of Defence Staff and other military leaders, leading our brave men and women in uniform.”
Dr. Matawalle also called on residents of the affected states to remain vigilant and cooperate with security forces. He reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to protecting the lives and property of all Nigerians, emphasizing that security and well-being remain top priorities.
