The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has urged informants aiding bandits in the Northwest to repent or face imminent death, as part of ongoing efforts to combat insecurity in the region.
Matawalle made this statement during an operational visit on Thursday to areas in Sokoto State affected by security threats, including Gundumi, Hawan Durum village, Isa, and Sabon Birni Local Government Areas.
The visit aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s directive to eliminate banditry in the Northwest. According to Matawalle, the operation has so far achieved significant success, with the elimination of several notorious bandit leaders in the area.
Many villages in the region have been abandoned by residents due to the escalating insecurity over the years.
The minister also urged local communities to fear God and support the Federal Government’s efforts, stressing that informants play a key role in the persistence of insecurity.
Matawalle commended the troops for their work and assured them of the Federal Government’s full support.