Three prominent northern groups, Arewa Youths Consultative Forum, Northern Awareness Network , and North West Solidarity Forum – have thrown their weight behind Defence Minister of State, Bello Matawalle’s bold plan to deploy military assets to Sokoto State.
The joint effort seeks to enhance joint military operations against bandits in Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina, and Kebbi states, a significant step in combating the escalating security challenges in the northern region.
Aso Reporters reports that the minister launched a comprehensive military operation to combat the bandits terrorising Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina, and Kebbi states.
This was according to a statement by the ministry’s Director of Public Information, Henshaw Ogugbike.
Matawalle, who expressed grave concern over the persistent insecurity in the region, directed the Chief of Defence Staff and other top military officers to join him in Sokoto, which would serve as the strategic headquarters for the joint military operations, to tackle the challenge.
The development was commended by the northern groups in separate statements released in Kaduna on Sunday, by the President-General of the AYCF, Yerima Shettima, Chairman of NAN, Salihu Suleiman and spokesperson for the NWSF, Tanimu Danlawal.
They also applauded Matawalle’s initiative, emphasising the urgent need for a decisive action against the violence, criminality, and insurgency threatening the North’s stability and socio-economic development.
They emphasised the importance of a coordinated response to threats against national security, urging governmental and non-governmental organisations to join forces in promoting transparent and effective dialogue.
“Recognising the challenges posed by persistent violence and crime, the AYCF acknowledges that effective implementation of this military strategy is essential for restoring safety and security,” they said.
The northern groups added further that “We are committed to working alongside government officials, security agencies, and local communities to ensure a safe and secure future for all citizens.
“We believe that through collaboration and shared commitment, the region can overcome adversities and pave the way for sustainable development while we reiterated our dedication to working collaboratively with governmental and non-governmental stakeholders to foster a safer Nigeria.”
They also commended Matawalle’s dedication to eradicating notorious bandit leader, Bello Turji, and his gang, stressing the importance of bold leadership in addressing the banditry scourge.
Meanwhile, residents of Sokoto State also commended the Federal Government’s directives on the relocation of the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, and the military chiefs to Sokoto axis over security challenges.
Some residents, who spoke with our correspondent on Sunday, appreciated the FG for the move, saying it indicated the government’s commitment and readiness to find a lasting solution to the menace.
A trader, Garba Mailambu, said the directive was a demonstration of the Federal Government’s seriousness to end insecurity.
Also speaking, a lecturer at the Usmanu Danfodio University, Sokoto, Dr Habibu Ahmed, described the order given by the minister as a relief and great service to humanity.