Governor of Kebbi State, Nasir Idris, has directed an immediate reassessment of current security measures following a fresh wave of armed bandit attacks in several parts of the state.
The directive came after an emergency security meeting held on Saturday at the Government House in Birnin Kebbi, where security leaders and government officials reviewed recent security concerns and discussed ways to enhance response mechanisms.
Those present at the meeting included the Brigade Commander, Commissioner of Police, Director of the State Security Service, Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Commander of the Vigilante Group, as well as the Controllers of Customs and Immigration Services.
Addressing attendees before the closed-door meeting, Governor Idris voiced concern over the renewed operations of notorious bandit groups, especially the Lakurawa faction, active in Wasagu Chiefdom and parts of the Argungu Emirate.
He stated that the state government remains committed to implementing stronger actions to safeguard lives and property.
“We must review our existing security strategies and introduce new measures to address the resurgence of banditry in some parts of the state.
“The protection of lives and property remains our top priority, and we are prepared to take every necessary step regardless of the cost implications,” the governor said.
While the meeting was in progress, a government delegation headed by Deputy Governor Umar Abubakar Tafida was sent to Wasagu Chiefdom to sympathise with affected residents and evaluate the security situation firsthand.
The delegation comprised the Speaker of the Kebbi State House of Assembly, Alhaji Salisu Dangoje, the Emir of Zuru, Muhammad Sanusi Mikailu Sami Gomo III, commissioners, and chairpersons of various state boards and commissions.
During a visit to the palace of the Chief of Wasagu, Alhaji Mukhtar Musa Muhammad, the deputy governor delivered Governor Idris’ message of condolence to victims and reiterated the administration’s resolve to tackle banditry in the area.
“The governor shares in your pain and remains fully committed to restoring peace and security across Wasagu Chiefdom and other affected communities. Government will continue to work closely with security agencies and community leaders to bring an end to these attacks,” Tafida said.
The delegation also toured communities impacted by the attacks and engaged local leaders in discussions aimed at boosting community involvement in ongoing security initiatives.
Idris further noted that his administration has consistently provided support to security agencies through logistics and manpower development.
“To complement the efforts of security agencies, the state government has trained thousands of youths for community security operations, provided over 100 operational vehicles, 7,000 motorcycles, and sustained financial support for personnel serving on the frontline,” he said.
The governor added that he intends to present the prevailing security situation and recommendations from the State Security Council to President Bola Tinubu, the Federal Ministry of Defence, and Defence Headquarters in search of lasting solutions to the security challenges affecting parts of the state.
He expressed confidence that improved cooperation among the federal and state governments, security agencies, and local communities would contribute significantly to restoring lasting peace in the affected areas.
