Matawalle vows to intensify fight against banditry, kidnapping in Sokoto State
Bello Muhammed Matawalle, Minister of State for Defence, has pledged to step up efforts in the ongoing fight against banditry and kidnapping in Sokoto State.
During his second visit to the region in two months, Matawalle reiterated the federal government’s commitment to restoring peace and security, as directed by President Bola Tinubu.
The Minister expressed confidence in military operations targeting criminal groups and urged political leaders to collaborate in the fight to end the wave of violence destabilizing the Northwest.
In a statement issued by Henshaw Ogubike, Director of Information and Public Relations in Abuja, the visit underlined the federal government’s determination to eradicate threats posed by criminal elements.
Matawalle reaffirmed that the government will continue to prioritize the fight against insecurity, urging residents of Sokoto to remain hopeful.
“As directed by Tinubu, I am back to Sokoto state to assure the people of this great region of our commitment to achieving all necessary yardsticks in the fight against insecurity.
“We will never leave you alone, and I assure you, we will win this war against bandits and those supporting them to unleash terror against our people,” Dr. Matawalle said.
The Minister also highlighted the progress made in military operations under “Operation Fansan Yamma,” which continues to target criminal gangs across the Northwest.
He expressed confidence in the success of the ongoing operations and pledged continued support for the region’s military forces.
“I am optimistic that our gallant troops will continue to record successes as we intensify our fight against these criminals,” he added.
Matawalle called for cooperation from political leaders across party lines, stressing the importance of unity in overcoming the security challenges.
“We must collaborate with all stakeholders in this region to achieve our target. The federal government will continue to boost the morale of our soldiers and security agencies in this fight,” he said.
He also issued a stern warning to bandits and their supporters, vowing that the government will not back down in its efforts to restore peace.
“We will never be intimidated or spare these criminals. We will not allow them to breathe or move freely. No matter how they try to blackmail or propagate mischief against our operations, we will remain unwavering in securing the lives and properties of our people”, he stated .
