In a determined effort to tackle the ongoing issue of banditry in the North West region, Dr. Bello Muhammad Matawalle, the Minister of State for Defence, along with General CG Musa, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), and other top military officials, arrived in Sokoto on Tuesday, September 3, to lead operations aimed at eradicating banditry and other criminal activities affecting the region.
The Minister and his team, including the Chief of Defence Intelligence (CDI) and other senior officers, were greeted by Brigadier General IA Ajose, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division and Force Commander of the Joint Task Force North West, Operation Hadarin Daji.
Following a directive from the federal government last Friday, which instructed the CDS to oversee military efforts in Sokoto, Dr. Matawalle personally committed to leading the mission. He and his delegation proceeded to the 8 Division’s operational headquarters for a detailed briefing from Brigadier General Ajose.
Ahmad Dan-wudil, the Personal Assistant on Media to the Minister, reported that the briefing covered the current situation, the progress of ongoing operations, and strategic plans to dismantle criminal networks in the region.
Dr. Matawalle praised the military’s efforts so far and reassured them of the federal government’s support, stating, “The safety and security of our citizens in the North West is a top priority for the government. We are here today to ensure that all efforts are being made to end this menace once and for all. Our military has the full backing of the government, and we will do whatever it takes to restore peace and stability to this region.”
The Minister highlighted the importance of teamwork between the military and local communities in combating the bandits’ sophisticated tactics. He encouraged residents to collaborate with security forces by providing timely and accurate information to help apprehend the criminals.
As Dr. Matawalle and his team continue their mission in Sokoto, the people of the North West remain hopeful that this renewed and focused effort will finally bring an end to the violence that has disrupted their lives for too long. The nation watches closely as these military leaders work to protect the lives and properties of Nigerians.
