In response to renewed bandit attacks in parts of Kebbi State, the government has announced plans to amend existing laws to prescribe the death penalty or life imprisonment for informants aiding the criminals.
Governor Nasiru Idris disclosed this on Tuesday during condolence visits to Tadurga village in Zuru and Kyebu in Danko/Wasagu Local Government Areas, where recent attacks claimed 30 lives.
Labeling informants as “a threat to society,” Governor Idris reiterated his administration’s zero-tolerance policy on insecurity and vowed to address the issue decisively.
To enhance security in the region, the governor revealed that a military operational base would soon be established in the Zuru Emirate. Additionally, Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) and other essential security equipment have already been deployed from Abuja to Kebbi.
Expressing profound sorrow over the tragic loss of lives, the governor prayed for the victims, asking Allah to grant the deceased Aljannah Firdausi and to heal the injured swiftly.
“We are here to see things for ourselves, commiserate with you, and reassure you of the urgent steps we have taken to improve security,” he told residents.
Governor Idris also detailed the government’s investments in security, noting the procurement of 80 Hilux vehicles for security personnel, 1,500 motorcycles for vigilantes, and increased allowances for operatives stationed in high-risk areas.
He urged the public not to politicise security issues or spread unverified information on social media, warning that such actions could jeopardise ongoing efforts to restore peace.
In their responses, the Chief of Danko, Ibrahim Al’aji, and the Chief of Dabai, Suleiman Sami, thanked the governor for his swift intervention and called for enhanced security measures, particularly along routes used by bandits entering from neighboring states.
The Emir of Zuru, Rtd. Major General Sani Sami also expressed appreciation for the governor’s visit and ongoing commitment to security in the emirate.