In a decisive move to address the escalating insecurity in Nigeria’s North West, the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has ordered the Chief of Defence Staff and other senior military officials to relocate to Sokoto State. This directive is part of a broader strategy aimed at eradicating banditry, terrorism, and other criminal activities plaguing the region.
Minister Matawalle expressed deep concern over the ongoing violence perpetrated by bandits and terrorists, particularly in Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina, and Kebbi states. He emphasized that while in Sokoto, the military chiefs would personally oversee operations, focusing on dismantling the notorious Bello Turji gang and its network.
Sokoto State serves as the headquarters for the General Officer Commanding, responsible for military operations across Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina, and Kebbi states. The relocation of military leadership to this strategic location underscores the government’s intensified efforts to restore peace and security in the region.
“The Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, has expressed his sorrow over the terror inflicted by bandits in Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina, Kebbi, and surrounding areas,” read a statement from the Ministry of Defence. “In response, the Minister has directed the Chief of Defence Staff and other military leaders to relocate to Sokoto. This move is part of the Federal Government’s intensified campaign to eliminate banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism in the North West.”
The statement highlighted a recent incident in Kwashabawa, Zurmi Local Government Area of Zamfara State, where bandits recorded a video of a stranded Nigerian military armored vehicle, celebrating their temporary victory. Matawalle condemned the incident, noting that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is determined to support the armed forces in their mission to eradicate these criminal elements.
“The Federal Government is committed to deploying all necessary resources to ensure that peace is restored and that these criminals are eradicated,” Matawalle affirmed. “Increased and sustained military operations will weaken and ultimately dismantle their bases.”
Matawalle called on the armed forces to intensify their efforts, assuring that his presence in the North West would bolster the morale of the troops. He also urged the local population to remain vigilant and cooperate with security forces, reiterating the government’s commitment to safeguarding the lives and properties of all Nigerians.
“The time is up for these bandits and terrorists,” Matawalle declared. “The government will not relent until peace is fully restored in the North West.”
The Minister concluded by assuring the people of Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina, Kebbi, and the entire North West region that no stone will be left unturned in the fight against insecurity, with military operations continuing until the threat is entirely neutralized.
