Katsina Lawmakers Seek More Troops To Tackle Banditry

The recent spate of attacks on innocent people in Katsina State by bandits has prompted an interface between lawmakers representing the state at the National Assembly with the chief of defence staff and the chief of army staff to tackle the situation.

In a press statement made available to newsmen after their visit to the chief of defence staff, the lawmakers expressed their concern over the worsening security situation in the state and sought urgent federal government support to protect the people’s lives.

They commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the federal government for their commitment to national security. However, they pointed out that in the light of the continuing banditry and kidnapping in the state, the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces should authorise the deployment of additional military assets and resources to the state to strengthen security operations and protect their communities.

“We most especially, on behalf of our constituents, commend the Katsina State government under the leadership of Governor Mallam Dikko Umaru Radda, for the proactive and unwavering efforts in tackling the pressing issue of general insecurity in the state.

We particularly appreciate the strides the Governor is making in combating banditry, kidnapping, and other violent attacks that have plagued our communities across the state. We pledge our continued support and call for sustained agencies, community leaders, and coordination among all security and stakeholders to restore peace and safety in Katsina State,” the statement reads.

The statement signed by the chairman of the Senate Committee on Army, Senator Abdulaziz Yar’adua, expressed the senators’ deepest condolences to the family of the victims and their commitment to stand with all who have suffered loss. They also remain committed to working with the federal government, the Armed Forces, including the police and other security agencies, to restore peace and security to Katsina State.

The chief of army staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, responded by assuring the delegation that a battalion would be established in Malumfashi to serve that axis.

It would be recalled that bandits attacked Gidan Mantau Community in Malumfashi local government area of Katsina State, which led to many deaths in the state.