“Banditry Now an Industry,” says Nigerian Governor
Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed has alleged that banditry and kidnapping in Nigeria have become an “industry,” accusing some security agencies of complicity.
In a televised interview, he stated, “Even the security agencies know where these bandits live. You see some key members of the security participate in ransom collecting. To me, it is appalling when you admit inefficiency and lack of capacity.”
He also criticized the impunity enjoyed by criminals in Nigeria, contrasting it with Niger, saying, “In the neighborhood Niger, they don’t allow Boko Haram to go with glee. So why are we allowing them? Today, it appears, this thing (banditry) has become an industry.”
The Nigerian military and other security forces have previously declined to comment on allegations of collusion in ransom deals.
Abductions Follow Bandit Leader Turji’s Threats in Northwest Nigeria
Six persons were abducted on Tuesday morning by armed bandits in Zamfara State, Northwest Nigeria. The attackers reportedly blocked the road, forced a Golf car to stop, and kidnapped the passengers before setting the vehicle on fire.
“Six travelers were abducted, and their vehicle was set ablaze. We don’t know if it was Turji’s group because he had threatened residents of Shinkafi and other local communities around,” one resident told Channels Television anonymously.
The attack follows recent threats by notorious bandit leader Bello Turji, who warned he would unleash violence in Zamfara’s Shinkafi and Zurmi areas, as well as communities in nearby Sokoto State, in 2025.
Residents, increasingly worried about their safety, are urging the government to take swift action against the rising banditry.
National Security Adviser Ribadu Declares 2025 a Turning Point in Nigeria’s Fight Against Terrorists
National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu has assured Nigerians of a stronger strategy to tackle terrorism, violent extremism, and organized crime in 2025, The Punch reports. Ribadu emphasized collaboration, innovative measures, and the launch of the Multi-Agency Anti-Kidnap Fusion Cell to combat kidnapping.
“Looking to 2025, Ribadu reassures Nigerians of the renewed focus on combating terrorism, violent extremism, and other serious organized crimes,” a statement by Maj. Gen. Adamu Laka, Coordinator of the National Counter-Terrorism Center said. He also announced plans to introduce emergency numbers for quicker reporting and intervention.
Reflecting on 2024, Ribadu acknowledged challenges like the Lakurawa group’s resurgence but praised security forces for their efforts.
“The year 2024 brought its share of security challenges, yet we’ve witnessed remarkable resilience from our security personnel,” Ribadu said, urging citizens to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities: “If you see something, say something.”
Forest Guards Seek Government Support to Launch Onslaught on Terrorists
The Nigerian Forest Security Service (NFSS), a specialized security agency focused on protecting forests and combating criminal activities in bushlands, is taking action to tackle insecurity in Anambra State, Southeast Nigeria.
The NFSS is seeking collaboration with state authorities to make communities safer for locals. The security situation in Anambra is grim and recent alarming incidents that highlight the need for urgent action. These include the abduction of a state lawmaker, the kidnapping of an Anglican clergyman, and the killing of a Catholic priest. Additionally, eight people were brutally massacred on December 30 in Chigbonu village, Ihiala County.
“NFSS is ever willing and ready to offer its expertise in securing the forests and bushes, both for economic reasons and security purposes. Our operations are mostly in the forests and bushes and we know the terrain very well,” said Destiny Jonas, the Anambra NFSS Commander, as quoted by Peoples Gazzette.
The NFSS, akin to the U.S. Forest Service but with a stronger focus on security, combines environmental protection with law enforcement. Jonas revealed plans to launch a large-scale crackdown on criminal camps starting January 2025.
Ezinwanne Onwuka reports for TruthNigeria from Abuja.
