By Ado Hassan, Sokoto
IN what seem like a wake up call against the ravaging bandits attacks on villages in the state in recent times, Governor Aminu Waziri Tambuwal of Sokoto state has vowed not to concede any part of the state to bandits particularly Isa, Sabon Birni, Kebbe and Gudu local government areas where banditry attacks have been alarming in recent times.
” We shall reinforce security within our power in those areas such that residents would be adequately protected.”
Tambuwal who made the declarative vow in Sokoto Friday evening shortly after an all important special emergency security meeting with heads of security agencies including NDLEA expressed concern on the ravaging attacks on innocent villagers by bandits in those areas.
” It is sad and disturbing on the rising security problems which have characterized the peaceful nature of the state due to activities of banditry in Isa, Sabon.Birni, Gudu and Kebbe which has led to the lost of life of the District Head of Balle, Gudu LG.
” This informed our decision to hold a special emergency
security meeting to review the entire security situation in the state, assess and make efforts to stamp out all heinous bandits activities around the state especially in border community axis”, he pointed out.
According to the Governor who just returned from performing the lesser hajj religious exercise” the state government in collaboration wit all security agencies and patriotic people of the state will do everything humanly possible to tame the trend of banditry and other disturbing crimes claiming the lives of people in the state.
” We must all be vigilant and rise against the dastardly activities. If you think because you are not bordering Zamfara state where the activities of bandits grossly thrives, is a mistake as it affects us all as neighbouring states. We need to strategically liaise with security agencies to reverse.
” The state government is ready to sacrifice by giving all the necessary support to ensure measures are taken to restore security, confidence and peace in the state”, he stated.
In the same vein, Tambuwal reminded people of the state that the presidential ban on use of motorcycles in areas where banditry activities were perpetrated remained.
” Whoever is arrested violating the directive would have himself to blame. Therefore, I am calling on parents and motorcycle users to abide by the directive by ensuring total compliance”
The governor further appealed to those Nigerians in border communities who had fled to neighbouring Niger republic as a result of banditry attacks to please return home as he guaranteed and assured of their security and safety of property.
” I will personally take a trip to Niger republic and talk to them to return home”, he assured.
