Kano community leader begs FG, state to stop rising bandit attacks

The chairman, Faruruwa and Neighbourhood Security Committee in Shanono Local Government Area of Kano State, Yahaya Bagobiri, has appealed to both the federal and state governments to urgently intervene in the worsening security situation in the area.

Mr Bagobiri made the appeal on Thursday during a news briefing in Kano on the spate of attacks by bandits in Faruruwa and neighbouring communities.

He said the residents of the affected communities had been living in fear due to the persistent attacks by bandits coming from Katsina State and other adjoining areas since 2022.

“We have been facing serious security challenges since 2022. Bandits, coming from Katsina and neighbouring areas, have been attacking us and nearby communities.

“That is why we are here to brief the press and draw the attention of the government to our plight,” he said.

Mr Bagobiri lamented that several lives had been lost while properties, including livestock such as cows, goats, and rams, had been stolen by the attackers.

“At least 1,600 cows have been rustled, and several machines and motorcycles carted away,” he bemoaned.

The chairman said the communities mostly affected include Faruruwa, Kuraku, Goron-Dutse,Tsaure, and Yan-Shado, adding that the residents of some border communities in neighbouring Tsanyawa had fled their homes due to repeated attacks.

According to him, the bandits, who often move in large numbers on motorcycles, attack at any time of the day, armed with sophisticated weapons.

“Just two days ago, they invaded our area with about 50 motorcycles, each carrying three persons, about 150 attackers killing people and stealing animals,” he added.

The chairman expressed concern over the inadequate manpower of the Joint Task Force (JTF) deployed to the area, noting that the team comprised fewer than 15 personnel, which he described as grossly insufficient to cover the vast terrain.

“How can 10 or 15 people confront over 150 armed men?” he queried.

Mr Bagobiri said the matter had been reported to the police, adding that the commissioner of police had visited the community about three months ago, while an army commandant also visited the area two days earlier.

He, however, expressed disappointment that despite these visits, security presence in the affected communities remained inadequate.

Mr Bagobiri also revealed that some victims had been forced to pay ransom to secure the release of kidnapped family members.

“For instance, one of our residents, Alhaji Haruna Gatali, paid ₦15 million to secure the release of his wife,” he said.

He called on President Bola Tinubu and Gov. Abba Kabir-Yusuf to strengthen the presence of security agencies in the area to end the persistent attacks.

“We sincerely hope the authorities will act quickly to restore peace and security to our communities,” Mr Bagobiri added.

(NAN)