Gobir Demands End to Bandit Attacks in Sokoto

By Fahad Faruk Galadanchi

Former Senator Abdullahi Gobir has called for sustained military operations against terrorists, bandits and other criminal groups operating in Sokoto State, particularly in Sokoto East.

Gobir, a member of the Niger Delta Development Commission, said the renewed offensive by security forces was necessary to end the persistent attacks on rural communities and restore peace across the affected areas.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, he said the activities of terrorists and bandits had continued to threaten lives, disrupt farming and undermine the livelihoods and economic activities of residents.

“The people of Sokoto have endured enough. Terrorists and bandits must not be allowed to dictate the future of our communities or hold innocent citizens hostage through fear and violence” he said.

He commended the Nigerian Army and other security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps and Community Guards Corps, for stepping up operations against criminal elements.

According to him, the deployment of additional personnel and military equipment to vulnerable areas signals a renewed commitment to reclaiming communities affected by insecurity.

Gobir expressed hope that sustained pressure on the criminal groups would degrade their capabilities and restore confidence among residents of Sabon Birni, Isa and neighbouring communities.

He, however, cautioned that military action must be complemented by effective intelligence gathering and active participation by local communities.

“Intelligence is the eyes of every successful security operation, and communities must become the eyes and ears of our security agencies” he said.

The former senator urged residents to promptly report suspicious movements, criminal hideouts, planned attacks and other information that could assist security agencies in tracking and dismantling criminal networks.

He also condemned individuals who allegedly provide terrorists and bandits with financial, logistical or operational support, warning that such assistance could undermine ongoing security operations.

Gobir particularly criticised informants who reveal the movements or deployment of security personnel to criminal groups, saying such acts could put the lives of security operatives and residents at risk.

“Such actions are a dangerous betrayal that can cost the lives of brave security personnel and expose entire communities to devastating attacks” he warned.

He further urged traditional rulers, religious leaders, community heads, youth groups and other stakeholders to strengthen cooperation with security agencies.

Gobir said effective collaboration would help prevent criminal groups from infiltrating communities, recruiting accomplices, securing supplies and escaping after attacks.