The Federal Government has directed the Chief of Defence Staff and other military leaders to relocate to Sokoto as part of intensified efforts to combat banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism in the North West region.
The directive was issued by the Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle, who emphasized the government’s commitment to restoring peace and security in the affected areas.
In a statement released by the Minister, he expressed deep concern over the ongoing activities of terrorists and bandits in Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina, and Kebbi states, stating that their presence has caused significant distress in the region. “The Honourable Minister of State for Defence H.E. Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle MON has expressed his sadness over the activities of terrorists and bandits terrorizing Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina, and Kebbi States and its environs,” the statement read.
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To address this, Dr. Matawalle has ordered the Chief of Defence Staff and other top military officials to relocate to Sokoto, the headquarters of the General Officer Commanding (GOC) for Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina, and Kebbi states. This move, according to the Minister, is a strategic decision aimed at ensuring that military operations are closely monitored and effectively executed in the region.
“This strategic move underscores the unwavering commitment of the government to restoring peace and security in the region. While in the North West, they will supervise operations and ensure that Bello Turji and his bandit gang are flushed out,” the statement continued.
Dr. Matawalle also highlighted a recent incident in Kwashabawa, Zurmi Local Government Area of Zamfara State, where bandits celebrated the capture of a Nigerian military armoured vehicle that had become stuck in a waterlogged area. The Minister condemned the incident, stating, “This is not acceptable as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR has been giving great support to the Armed Forces of Nigeria.”
The Minister reassured the people of Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina, and Kebbi states that the government is fully committed to eliminating the threat posed by these criminal elements. “The Federal Government is deeply concerned about the persistent threat posed by banditry and terrorism in the North West particularly. 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 stated.
He further urged the security forces to intensify their efforts, saying, “The time is up for these bandits and terrorists as increased and consistent operations will weaken all their bases.” Dr. Matawalle also called on the people of the affected states to remain vigilant and cooperate with the security forces, assuring them that the government will leave no stone unturned in its efforts to protect their lives and properties.
Dr. Matawalle announced that he would be on the ground in the North West, leading the operations alongside the Chief of Defence Staff and other military leaders. “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,” he affirmed.
