Army Deploys Dual Strategy After Bandit Attacks In Bauchi

Governor Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed on Tuesday received a high-level security briefing from the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division of the Nigerian Army, Major General Eyitayo Folusho Oyinlola, following recent security breaches in parts of Alkaleri local government area of Bauchi.

The GOC visited Bauchi on the directive of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede in response to attacks on Mansur, Futuk, Digare, and Gwana and others communities all in Alkaleri LGA, where bandits reportedly displaced several residents.

During the briefing, Major General Oyinlola assured the governor that the Nigerian Army has deployed both kinetic and non-kinetic strategies to restore normalcy in the affected areas.

He disclosed that troops have intensified clearance operations, strengthened surveillance in identified flashpoints, and enhanced collaboration with other security agencies to prevent further incursions.

He added that intelligence-driven operations are ongoing to dismantle criminal hideouts and disrupt the movement of armed groups across the region.

Additional operational logistics and manpower, he said, have also been mobilised to ensure sustained security presence in Alkaleri and surrounding communities.

The GOC reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to protecting lives and property, assuring residents that efforts are being intensified to stabilise the area.

In his response, Governor Bala Mohammed, expressed appreciation for what he described as the prompt and practical intervention of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, following his earlier engagement in Abuja.

The governor noted that he was encouraged by the swift response of the military high command, adding that the Brigade Commander had earlier briefed him on arrangements to clear the affected communities.

Governor Mohammed commended the Chief of Army Staff, the GOC, and the entire military leadership for their robust response, expressing satisfaction with the ongoing operations.

He also pledged the readiness of the Bauchi State government to collaborate with the military through both kinetic and non-kinetic approaches, including community engagement and sociological interventions aimed at addressing the root causes of insecurity.

The governor reaffirmed the commitment of the state government, local authorities, and affected communities to support security agencies in restoring lasting peace across Alkaleri local government area.

This development follows recently visit by Bauchi State governor Bala Mohammed to President Bola Tinubu who raised the alarm over worsening insecurity in parts of the state.

The governor told President Bola Tinubu, that bandits have taken over several communities and ungoverned areas, particularly in Alkaleri local government area of the state.

Governor Mohammed said the activities of the bandits had escalated to the point where security agencies were struggling to contain them, forcing residents to flee their homes.