Crime

Bandits Control Village Leadership in Sokoto: Local Chairman Sounds Alarm

Published by Tope Fakinlede on October 10th, 2024.

Bandits Control Village Leadership in Sokoto: Local Chairman Sounds Alarm

Alhaji Sharifu Kamarawa, the Chairman of Isa Local Government Area in Sokoto State, has informed Minister of State for Defence, Alhaji Bello Matawalle, that several communities in the area remain under the influence of bandits.

During the minister’s visit to the local government secretariat on Thursday, Kamarawa revealed that the bandits, led by Kachalla Bello Turji, have been appointing and deposing village leaders in those regions.

“In Isa town, we enjoy relative peace. However, in the eastern part of Isa, some areas are still controlled by bandits, who interfere with village leadership,” he stated. He urged for the establishment of a military camp in Kagara, recalling that a previous camp had contributed to improved security before its relocation.

He noted that since the recent death of the notorious bandit leader Halilu Sububu, attacks have decreased significantly, allowing residents to travel on previously unsafe roads.

Minister Matawalle emphasized President Bola Tinubu’s concern for security in the North, highlighting the appointment of northern leaders to key defense positions. He announced plans to establish a military base in Gundumi to enhance security patrols along the Gundumi-Marnona road, which has been closed for years.

Matawalle reassured the people of Isa that more security personnel would be deployed to the region. “We need your cooperation, as security is a collective responsibility. It’s essential to keep us informed about any bandit movements,” he urged.