Nigeria’s Defence Minister, Bello Matawalle, has reaffirmed President Bola Tinubu’s government’s commitment to eradicating bandits terrorizing the North-West region.
Matawalle made this statement while addressing journalists in Sokoto on Wednesday.
“I am back in Sokoto state to coordinate the assignment of flushing out all bandits and other criminals, as directed by Mr. President,” Matawalle said. “We have recorded some level of achievements, including the elimination of notorious gang leaders and group members in different locations. Relative peace has been restored in Sokoto, Zamfara, and Katsina.”
Matawalle expressed optimism that the military’s efforts, through Operation Fansan Yamma, would continue to yield success in the fight against these criminals.
“The federal government is committed to ensuring the success of these operations and will continue to boost the morale of our soldiers and other security agencies,” Matawalle explained. “We appreciate the sacrifices and gallant fight against insecurity by our military personnel and other security agencies.”
Matawalle commended Sokoto State Governor Ahmad Aliyu for his support and called on other governors, political leaders, clerics, and stakeholders to support the presidential initiatives.
“Collaboration is crucial in achieving our goals,” Matawalle emphasized. “We must work together to crush these bandits using kinetic and non-kinetic methods. We will not be intimidated or distracted from securing lives and properties.”
On August 31, President Tinubu directed Matawalle and other military chiefs to relocate to Sokoto to rid the North-West region of bandits, kidnappers, and terrorists. The federal government described this move as an intensified effort to combat banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism.
