Northern Groups Back Matawalle’s Military Deployment Against Banditry

Three prominent northern groups, Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF), Northern Awareness Network (NAN), and North West Solidarity Forum (NWSF) – have thrown their weight behind Defence Minister of State, Bello Matawalle’s bold plan to deploy military assets to Sokoto State.

The joint effort seeks to enhance joint military operations against bandits in Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina, and Kebbi States, a significant step in combating the escalating security challenges in the northern region.

THE WHISTLER reports that the Minister launched a comprehensive military operation to combat the bandits terrorising Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina, and Kebbi states.

This was according to a statement by the ministry’s Director of Public Information, Henshaw Ogugbike.

Matawalle, who expressed grave concern over the persistent insecurity in the region, directed the Chief of Defence Staff and other top military officers to join him in Sokoto, which would serve as the strategic headquarters for the joint military operations, to tackle the challenge.

A development, the northern groups in a separate statement released in Kaduna on Sunday, by the President-General of the AYCF, Yerima Shettima, Chairman of NAN, Salihu Suleiman and Spokesperson of the NWSF Tanimu Danlawal, commended.

They also applauded Matawalle’s initiative, emphasising the urgent need for decisive action against the violence, criminality, and insurgency threatening the north’s stability and socio-economic development.

They emphasised the importance of a coordinated response to threats against national security, urging governmental and non-governmental organisations to join forces in promoting transparent and effective dialogue.

The statement further urged citizens to remain vigilant and supportive of initiatives serving the greater good of the nation, emphasising the need for bold leadership to address the scourge of banditry.

According to them, the call for an enhanced military presence in Sokoto State is rooted in a broader desire to restore peace and order which are critical components for fostering an environment ripe for development and prosperity.

“Recognizing the challenges posed by persistent violence and crime, the AYCF acknowledges that effective implementation of this military strategy is essential for restoring safety and security,” they said.

The northern groups added further that “we are committed to working alongside government officials, security agencies, and local communities to ensure a safe and secure future for all citizens.

“We believe that through collaboration and shared commitment, the region can overcome adversities and pave the way for sustainable development while we reiterated our dedication to working collaboratively with governmental and non-governmental stakeholders to foster a safer Nigeria.”

They also commended Matawalle’s dedication to eradicating notorious bandit leader Bello Turji and his gang, stressing the importance of bold leadership in addressing the banditry scourge.

Northern Groups Back Matawalle’s Military Deployment Against Banditry is first published on The Whistler Newspaper