The Federal Government has unveiled plans to establish three military formations in Sokoto State, aiming to intensify the fight against banditry and other forms of criminality. This development was announced by the Minister of State Defence, Dr. Bello Matawalle, during a visit to reopen the Marnona-Gundumi-Isa road, which had been closed for eight years due to security challenges.
Dr. Matawalle, leading military personnel, interacted with community members in Isa, Sabon Birni, and Goronyo local government areas. He emphasized the importance of collaboration with the federal government to achieve targeted goals, stressing the need to “bring these bandits down” through kinetic and non-kinetic methods.
The Minister reported successes in the ongoing operations, with troops eliminating notorious gang leaders and restoring relative peace in Sokoto, Zamfara, and Katsina States. He urged residents to return to their deserted settlements, assuring them of government’s commitment to safeguarding lives and properties.
Key Highlights:
Establishment of Three Military Formations to support military operations against banditry and criminality.
Reopening of Marnona-Gundumi-Isa Road, closed for eight years due to security challenges.
Collaboration with Federal Government essential for achieving targeted goals.
Successes in Ongoing Operations, with troops eliminating notorious gang leaders and restoring relative peace.
Call to Residents to return to deserted settlements, assured of government’s protection.
Local government chairmen commended the Minister’s visit, urging more security deployments. Community members expressed gratitude for the military’s efforts, reporting the disappearance of bandit camps.
President Bola Tinubu had ordered Dr. Matawalle and military chiefs to relocate to Sokoto State, intensifying efforts to rid the Northwest region of banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism.
