From Umar Danladi Ado, Sokoto
Kebbi State Governor, Comrade Dr. Nasir Idris, has ordered an immediate review of existing security strategies following the resurgence of armed banditry in some parts of the state.
The directive was issued during an emergency security meeting held at the Government House in Birnin Kebbi over the weekend to assess the recent security challenges and strengthen measures aimed at restoring peace in affected communities.
The meeting brought together key security stakeholders, including the Brigade Commander, Commissioner of Police, Director of the State Security Service (SSS), Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Commander of the Vigilante Group, and the Controllers of Customs and Immigration Services.
Addressing the security chiefs before the commencement of the closed-door meeting, Governor Idris expressed concern over the renewed activities of bandit groups, particularly the notorious Lakurawa group, operating in parts of Wasagu Chiefdom and the Argungu Emirate.
The governor stressed the need for fresh and more effective security approaches to safeguard lives and property, declaring that his administration would spare no effort in tackling the threat.
“New strategies must be introduced to address the situation and ensure the protection of our people, regardless of the cost implications,” he stated.
While the security meeting was in progress, a high-powered government delegation led by the Deputy Governor, Senator Umar Abubakar Tafida, was dispatched to Wasagu Chiefdom to sympathise with communities affected by the recent attacks.
The delegation included the Speaker of the Kebbi State House of Assembly, Alhaji Salisu Dangoje; the Emir of Zuru, Alhaji Muhammad Sanusi Mikailu Sami Gomo III; commissioners; and chairmen of various state boards and commissions.
At the palace of the Chief of Wasagu, Alhaji Mukhtar Musa Muhammad, the Deputy Governor conveyed Governor Idris’ message of sympathy and solidarity to the affected residents, assuring them of the government’s determination to end the menace of banditry.
The delegation also assessed the extent of destruction caused by the attacks and held consultations with community leaders to strengthen local participation in ongoing security efforts.
Governor Idris reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting security agencies in the fight against criminal activities across the state.
According to a statement issued on Sunday by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Communication and Strategy, Abdullahi Idris Sadaukin Zuru, the state government has taken several measures to bolster security operations.
These include the training of thousands of youths to support security agencies, the provision of more than 100 operational vehicles and 7,000 motorcycles, as well as financial assistance to personnel serving on the frontlines.
The governor is also expected to present the current security situation in Kebbi State and recommendations from the State Security Council to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Federal Ministry of Defence, and Defence Headquarters in a bid to secure lasting solutions to the security challenges facing the state.
