An Impostor and His Rage: Exposing Mike Auta’s False Claims

Shortly after the September 4th All Important Stakeholders Meeting of the Labour Party at Government House Umahia, which gave birth to the Sen. Usman Nenadi led LP Interim National Caretaker Committee (LP-NCC), one character, Engr Mike Auta came out with outlandish claims and mudslinging against Sen. Nenadi Usman and topnotch leaders of the party in Kaduna state. His outburst was shared on many platforms until our attention was called to it.

His disrespectful posture to our most valued leaders and clear barefaced lies are unworthy of reproduction here, but it suffices to point out the following from his outing

He claimed that Sen. Nenadi Usman and Hon. Jonathan Asake worked against him when he contested for the Senate seat of Kaduna South Senatorial Zone in 2023.
That Sen. Nenadi Usman, Hon. Jonathan Asake, Dr. Datti Baba Ahmed and others worked against the victory of Mr Peter Obi during the 2023 presidential elections.
He also boasted as being the sole financier of the LP in Southern Kaduna and Kaduna state.
In a display of shocking guts that are only found among hardened crooks, he said that the Obi/Datti campaign organisation is still owing him.
In utter frustration and bitterness, he rejected the emergence of (LP-NCC) and denounced it as “illegal” among other vulgar invectives.

Though it beats our imagination how he came about the title “Engr”, because his last known honest vocation was carpentry after his apprenticeship, we want to guess that he assumed the title as an alias. In fact it is believed that he didn’t even complete his secondary school being a chronic truant as a school kid.

Now, back to the issues at stake:
His first claim is an absurd lie. Though Sen. Nenadi, Hon Asake et al may have earlier noticed the “Engr” as one of shady and dubious character filled with empty ego, Sen. Nenadi nonetheless in conjunction with Hon. Asake assisted him financially during his campaign and there is irrefutable evidence to show. In fact Hon. Asake took the campaign of this charlatan personally as he entered every nook and cranny of Kaduna South Senatorial Zone campaigning for Mike Auta and Peter Obi, as part of his own gubernatorial campaign. And we have everything in audio and video. Let Mike Auta come out with his own evidence and put a lie to this claim. From events that followed after the Kaduna South Senatorial Zone election, it is now evident that Kaduna South Senatorial Zone was spared the emergence of a conscienceless person who can take school children from here and dump them in Togo under a phoney scholarships scheme.
No one that is in his right mind will accuse Dr. Baba Ahmed of working against his own victory in his own state, when it was obvious that he was going to be vice president elect. What do Sen. Nenadi and Hon. Asake stand to gain if Mr Obi lost in Kaduna state. True observers of our 2023 Presidential campaigns in Kaduna state know that no presidential candidate got the support of our state like Mr Obi. And we still stand on our irrevocable belief that Mr Obi won in Kaduna state, no matter the result that was cooked by INEC. So it is abject madness for Mike Auta to level such accusations. But, bitterness and frustration are mind benders.
For Mike Auta to claim that he was the sole financier of the LP in Southern Kaduna and Kaduna state is the same insane and brazen claim he is making as being the owner of Nok University. Mike has unparalleled nerves for snatching what doesn’t belong to him and staking his life to it. Agreed, he rented and furnished his campaign office in Kafanchan, but unknown to most people, including his supporters, Mike made promises in scores of millions which he never fulfilled. During the campaigns he was and still is owing car rental companies; hotel accommodations, filling stations, POS operators and even “mama puts” restaurants. He is a known grabber of Abuja lands and is engaged in numerous shady sales of property in Abuja. His cases in court are in scores. He has to carry truck loads of police to evade arrest and attacks from those he highly owes debts, He was a big embarrassment to the party by the shame he brought upon it through such borrowing from even the struggling poor.The major life line of LP in the entire Kaduna State was Hon. Jonathan Asake. Payments made to Mike Auta can be produced, if he dared such.
A man without integrity have no qualms about making falsehoods. The truth is that Mike Auta was the beneficiary of 75% of the Obi/Datti campaign funds that came to Kaduna South Senatorial Zone. Every Kobo to the last million is well documented, unknown to him.
The tantrums of Mike Auta against the emergence of Sen. Nenadi and her LP-NCC is nothing a non-entity like the fake engineer can do about it. We understand that he has invested some of his ill-gotten wealth in lobbying to be part of the inner caucus of the LP both in Kaduna state and in Abuja. Unfortunately he has no pedigree. His only asset as a party member is that he contested for the Senatorial seat of the LP and lost. Therefore when serious stakeholders of the party are called over matters of national importance to the party, forget his little education, there’s no room for him. Sen. Nenadi and the other party leader he is insulting are light years ahead of him in political attainments, social clout and moral standing. And as he can see, Sen Nenadi has not only been totally accepted by serious LP and Obedient members home and abroad, INEC has duly affirmed her as the true interim leader of our party today, 13th September, 2024.

Finally, let our party members and the general public not be deceived or be misled by Mike Auta as a giant LP member. The truth is that after the presidential elections of 2023, he teamed up with the Lamidi Apapa led faction of the LP. After a kangaroo meeting in Bauchi, he was made vice Chairman of LP, Northwest. Their aim was to fight Peter Obi at the Election Tribunal.

The Labour Party in Kaduna state then called an emergency SEC meeting at the BBS hotel, Kaduna where he was given an indefinite suspension. It still stands till date.

Kindly disregard the frustration and rage of that imposter.

Sign: Campaign for Renewed Labour Party (CRLP).

13/09/2024.

NEF Lauds FG As Banditry Takes a Hit, Commends Military





By Usman Mohammed

The Northern Elders Forum (NEF) has expressed satisfaction with the reported killing of Halilu Buzu Sububu, a notorious bandit leader, by the Nigerian Military under the leadership of the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle. This development marks a significant turning point in the fight against insecurity in Nigeria’s North-West region.

NEF Spokesman Abdul-Azeez Suleiman highlighted the growing optimism regarding the military’s efforts, suggesting that the elimination of Sububu, a major arms supplier to bandits, may provide a strategic advantage in diminishing their operational capacity.

Suleiman called upon the Nigerian government to provide greater backing for the Junior Defence Minister, emphasizing the need for a concerted effort to dismantle the network of banditry that has engendered fear and disruption within communities.

He dispelled misconceptions regarding the Forum’s stance towards President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, articulating a nuanced position that emphasizes constructive criticism as a tool for national progress.

Suleiman emphasized that the fight against banditry is far from over, recognizing the determination of the Nigerian Army and allied security agencies. He called for unity in support of ongoing military operations and discouraged divisive critiques that could undermine progress.

The NEF’s spokesman articulated a vision for Nigeria’s future that balances support for military efforts with a culture of respectful engagement with leadership, promoting collaborative efforts that prioritize the well-being of all citizens.

“Championing military initiatives against banditry while promoting constructive dialogue is a commitment to enhancing societal well-being. This dual approach seeks not only to eradicate insecurity but also to lay the groundwork for a future marked by peace and progress. As we collectively aspire for a Nigeria free from the specter of violence, it is this spirit of cooperation and understanding that will prove pivotal on our path to recovery,” Suleiman said.

The NEF’s spokesman delineates a clear vision for the future of Nigeria amidst the ongoing challenges presented by insecurity. As Nigeria confronts the multifaceted challenges of national security and development, the insights and advocacy of the NEF will remain pivotal in shaping a future where peace and progress are attainable for all citizens.

New Dawn for North-West Nigeria: Military’s Victory Over Banditry”

By Adeyemi Samala

The Northern Awareness Network (NAN) has commended the bravery and resolve of the Nigerian Armed Forces under the astute leadership of the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Mohammed Matawalle, in military’s rigorous operations—spurred by the directives of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu—which has initiated a significant turning tide in the persistent battle against banditry, particularly in the North-Western region of Nigeria.

According to the northern group in a statement issued by its Chairman Salihu Suleiman, the Northern region has long been beleaguered by the terror and violence inflicted by notorious bandit leader Bello Turji Kachalla, whose criminal enterprise, characterized by extortion, intimidation, and the tragic loss of lives, has wrought havoc upon our local communities.

NAN averred that the audacity with which Turji has operated, compelling citizens to pay exorbitant protection levies and perpetuating a culture of fear, is a matter of grave concern for all stakeholders in our beloved nation.

“In a decisive move to combat the incessant menace of banditry, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has mandated Minister Matawalle to lead intensified military operations aimed squarely at dismantling Turji’s illicit activities. This directive symbolizes a pivotal juncture in Nigeria’s ongoing struggle against banditry, emphasizing the government’s unwavering commitment to restoring peace and security to vulnerable communities.

“The recent strategic realignment of military resources to Sokoto, where Minister Matawalle has relocated to ensure enhanced oversight, further underscores the government’s urgency to reclaim authority in the region. The commitment shown by both President Tinubu and Minister Matawalle serves as a beacon of hope for citizens weary of insecurity”.

NAN therefore applauded the swift action taken by Minister Matawalle and the gallant troops of the Nigerian Armed Forces. Their recent operations have clearly demonstrated effectiveness in incapacitating bandit elements, leading to a marked decline in the organized criminal activities that once seemed unassailable.

Suleiman said reports indicate that bandit leaders, who were once emboldened by a perceived lack of concerted military presence, have been sent scampering into the shadows, with their criminal enterprises thrown into disarray. This newfound momentum in our security apparatus is both reassuring and promising, the group said.

“The neutralization of Halilu Buzu, a foreign national (from the Republic of Niger), a terrorist leader involved in cattle rustling and illegal gold mining in Jawayi Anka LGA of Zamfara State, and a notorious leader of the bandits, marks a significant milestone in the fight against banditry in Nigeria, reflecting the resolve of local authorities to confront and dismantle criminal networks.

“This development not only reassures residents of Zamfara State but also represents a broader commitment to securing the nation against the threats posed by both domestic and foreign criminals. The fight against banditry is ongoing, but with sustained efforts like those demonstrated by Minister Matawalle, there is hope for a more peaceful and secure future for the region.

“In light of these recent successes, we call for deeper support and understanding from the public. The collaboration of citizens is paramount in the collective endeavor to restore peace and stability within our communities. The resilience of the Nigerian populace and their participation in intelligence-sharing efforts will serve to fortify the recent gains achieved by our military forces.

“We give glory to God for His divine intervention in the fight against banditry. May His name be forever praised.”

Banditry in North-West Nigeria: A Glimmer of Hope

By Ibrahim Yusuf

The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF) has commended the recent successes recorded by the military in the fight against banditry in Nigeria’s North-West region. The forum attributed the progress to the strategic leadership of Minister of State for Defence, Bello Mohammed Matawalle, and the renewed commitment of the current administration to restoring peace and security.

The AYCF noted that the North-West has been plagued by banditry, resulting in insecurity and harm to innocent civilians. However, the military’s intensified operations have led to the displacement of bandit elements and a significant reduction in attacks.

The forum urged the military to sustain the momentum and ensure the total eradication of banditry in the region. It also emphasized the need for a holistic approach that addresses the root causes of banditry, including socio-economic development and community engagement.

The AYCF expressed confidence in Minister Matawalle’s ability to lead the military to victory against banditry and called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to invest in programs that empower local communities and restore faith in governance.

By working together, the AYCF believes that sustainable peace and security can be achieved in Nigeria’s North-West region, and the communities can flourish without fear of violence.

The forum also commended the troops for their bravery and sacrifices, and urged them to remain vigilant and focused on the mission to restore peace and security to the region.

The AYCF further emphasized the need for continued support and cooperation from local communities, traditional leaders, and other stakeholders to ensure the success of the military’s operations and the achievement of lasting peace in the region.

NAN Rebukes Asada’s Unfounded Claims Against Defence Minister, Matawalle_

By Doma Egba

The Northern Awareness Network (NAN) categorically rejects the recent allegations made by Sokoto cleric Mallam Bello Asada regarding Nigeria’s Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle. In a video uploaded by Zagazola, a renowned Counter Insurgency Expert in the Lake Chad, West Africa region, Asada claimed that several notorious bandit leaders, including Sububu, Ada Allero, and Bello Turji, were provided with Hilux vehicles by the minister. NAN maintains that these claims are misleading, fabricated, and entirely untrue.

NAN deeply regrets the cleric’s unfounded criticisms of the government’s unwavering efforts to apprehend bandit leader Bello Turji. The network asserts that the N20 million bounty placed on Turji is a legitimate and serious initiative to combat banditry in the region and should not be dismissed lightly.

Asada’s assertion that Minister Matawalle has full awareness of Turji’s whereabouts and possesses personal knowledge of him is not only unfounded but also libelous, slanderous, and provocative. NAN firmly believes that such statements undermine the ongoing efforts of government officials and security agencies dedicated to restoring peace and order in affected areas.

In light of the current security challenges facing the nation, NAN advises Mallam Asada to reclaim his statesmanship by either engaging in active party politics or maintaining a dignified silence to allow the government and security forces to effectively carry out their responsibilities.

The Northern Awareness Network stands with the government in its fight against banditry and urges all stakeholders to work collectively towards ensuring the safety and security of our communities.

Ajayi’s Appointment: A Beacon of Hope for Nigeria’s Security Challenges

By Sabo Dogo

The Northern Awareness Network (NAN) has endorsed Adeola Ajayi as the new Director General of the Department of State Services (DSS), appointed by President Bola Tinubu. NAN’s chairman, Salihu Sulaiman, expressed the organization’s firm belief that Ajayi’s leadership will bring a transformative approach to national security and stability in Nigeria.

NAN’s endorsement is based on Ajayi’s impressive track record, particularly his successful interventions in states beset by insecurity, including Kogi, Kano, Bauchi, Gombe, Kaduna, and Plateau. His proactive and effective measures have mitigated security threats and fostered communal harmony.

Ajayi’s decisive actions in Bauchi and Plateau States have resulted in significant drops in violent incidents, allowing citizens to reclaim a sense of safety. His strategic operations in Kogi led to the neutralization of the insurgent group Ansaru, demonstrating his capability and commitment to national security.

NAN regards Ajayi’s appointment as a strategic and timely decision by President Tinubu, amidst ongoing security challenges. The organization anticipates that Ajayi’s leadership will embody a more covert and intelligence-driven approach, enhancing the operational effectiveness of the DSS.

NAN calls upon all stakeholders to rally behind Ajayi, urging citizens to exhibit patience, cooperation, and understanding as he embarks on his crucial mandate. They emphasize that this collaborative spirit is vital in establishing an enabling environment that will empower Ajayi to fulfill his vision for a secure and stable nation.

Recognizing the specific security challenges faced in the North, NAN remains optimistic that Ajayi’s deep-rooted understanding of these issues will aid in restoring peace and order throughout the area. The organization believes that exemplary leadership characterized by integrity, professionalism, and community engagement possesses the potential to positively transform Nigeria’s security landscape.

As the nation transitions into a new phase of security strategies under Ajayi’s leadership, NAN stands ready to support his efforts in reinforcing public confidence in the state security apparatus. The coming months are pivotal for assessing the impact of his strategies on national security. NAN encourages all Nigerians to unite in support of Adeola Ajayi, fostering a unified front against the ongoing challenges of insecurity and its profound implications for the future of our country.

Don’t Negotiate with Bandits, Northern Elders Caution President Tinubu

Grace Idoko

Following the purported video of the bandits’ kingpin, Bello Turji, seeking reconciliation with the Federal Government, the Northern Elders have cautioned President Bola Tinubu to ignore such antics. In a press statement, signed by Alhaji Mustafa Aliyu Dutsin Ma, Northwest Chairman of Arewa Elders Progressive Group, the group warned against any attempt to reconcile with those who have sponsored banditry, when the morale is now high, people are confident and happy with the operations going around.

The group believes that Turji Bello was only pretending to be ready for reconciliation, considering the number of lives he and his gang have taken in the past few years of banditry in the North-West Nigeria.

“We, the North Elders, are compelled to address a pressing issue that threatens the security and stability of our nation. Recent reports suggest that President Tinubu is considering reconciling with notorious bandit, Turji, and his cohorts. We strongly advise against this move, as it would set a dangerous precedent and undermine the government’s efforts to combat banditry.

Reconciling with those who have perpetrated heinous crimes against innocent citizens would be a betrayal of public trust. While commending the efforts of the Military operations going on so far in some villages of Shinkafi and Jibia, especially air and ground attacks, we want it to be sustained for effective results.

This would be a slap in the face of victims and their families, who have suffered unimaginable trauma and loss. We demand that justice be served, and those responsible for these atrocities be held accountable.

The relocation of minister of state defense, Bello Matawalle, Chief of Defense Staff, other service chiefs and senior military personnel has shown the commitment of FGN and yielded much positive results so far, going by the continued military attacks forcing some of the bandits retreat in other places.

Therefore, reconciliation without accountability would be a miscarriage of justice and a disservice to the nation. The primary responsibility of any government is to ensure the security and safety of its citizens. We urge President Tinubu to prioritize this responsibility and avoid any actions that may compromise it.

Turji and his cohorts have committed unspeakable crimes, including murder, kidnapping, and destruction of property. They must face the full weight of the law, rather than being offered a reconciliatory olive branch.

We must prioritize national security over any attempts at reconciliation. The safety of our citizens and the integrity of our nation depend on it. We, therefore call on President Tinubu to ensure that those responsible for banditry are held accountable for their actions. Anything less would be a failure of leadership and a betrayal of public trust.”

2027 Realignment: Kaduna Speaker Visits Shehu Sani

In bid to strategies and form a united front ahead of the 2027 general elections in Kaduna , the Speaker of Kaduna State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon.Yusuf Liman has visited former lawmaker, Senator Shehu Sani woo him to return to the ruling party, All Progressives Congress.

According to information gathered, part of reasons for the visit was to also thank him for the support and contributions provided during the concluded Investigation of alleged looting of Kaduna State Treasury.

The Kaduna State House of Assembly did set up a 13- member fact finding committee to investigate financial transactions, loans, grants and project executions under the eight year administration of former governor Nasir El-rufai.

The adhoc committee set up by the Assembly carried out the investigations and submitted its report indicting ex-governor Elrufai and some of his appointees of siphoning N423bn State funds.

However, Senator Shehu Sani ,who was elected by the steps taken to recover the looted funds hailed the Kaduna State House of Assembly for probing former governor El-rufai’s administration from 2015-2023 with a strong voice that the people of Kaduna were appreciative of the lawmakers’ courage and determination.

The human rights activist then promised to give all the necessary support needed to recover the looted funds irrespective of whoever is involved.

In appreciation of Shehu Sani’s support and contributions during the investigation by the Assembly, the speaker visited him as measure to return the gesture.

Meanwhile, from information gathered as part of reasons for the visit was to discuss realignment and appeal for his return to the ruling party, All Progressives Congress (APC) to support Governor Uba Sami ahead with of 2027 general election.

Shehu Sani in recent appeared to have resolved the political difference with his bosom friend and Kaduna Governor, Senator Uba Sani in order to work in unity as a formidable force to develop Kaduna State .

Yoruba youth group warn Bwala to stop peddling lies  against Matawalle

Amman Deborah

The Yoruba Youth Council has condemned an online post credited to a former aide of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, one Daniel Bwala, who suggested that the Ministers of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, and Bello Matawalle (State) might be sacked by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over what he perceived as lack of cooperation between the Army and the Air Force.

Bwala had in a post on his X handle on Sunday insinuated that his perception caused the seizure by bandits of Nigerian military armoured vehicles somewhere in Zamfara State in the Northwest region, leading to a reported video victory celebration by terrorism kingpin Bello Turji and his armed bandits.

Reacting through its leader, Comrade Eric Oluwole, the umbrella Yoruba Youth organisation said: “We wish to state that Bwala just expressed his jaundiced personal opinion to which he is entitled.

‘A keen, careful reading of this shows that his wrong and misleading opinion had an undertone of selfish interest, which he portrayed erroneously as a news story to hoodwink the unwary, and instigate hostility against the persons of the performing ministers for reason(s) best known to him.

“It also shows that he has a hidden agenda in pushing such an unintelligible and illogical opinion to the media space. It was an opinion that brimmed with vendetta, the destructive, and blind pull-him-down syndrome hosted by the writer, his co-travelers and paymasters alone.

“The post was fictitious, cooked out of beer-parlour stupor and borne out of the writer’s wild and reckless imagination.

‘The Presidency never said anything of such. The post was not attributed to anybody. The emergency and mercenary reporter only pushed his personal opinion and wish to the media space. He reported no one but himself, and thereby showed the type of a human being he is. One who should not be taken seriously by right-thinking persons.

“And who is this writer of falsehood?

‘Daniel Bwala was a member of the opposition People’s Democratic Party, PDP, working with that party’s former presidential candidate, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, but who is now looking for ways to identify himself with the Tinubu administration. He has been lobbying that he should be appointed as the president’s spokesman.

“However, Yoruba youths advise that such a character cannot be trusted in that the Borno State-born politician, Bwala, portays himself as a betrayal, as his antecedents show.

“A former member of the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, where he served as a thorn in the opposition PDP’s flesh, he decamped from APC in July, 2023 claiming that he was not convinced in the Ahmed Tinubu/ Kashim Shettima same-faith joint on muslim-Muslim ticket. He said that he would not support any ticket that allegedly excluded a major section of the country from democracy dividends.

“He then jumped into the boat of Tinubu’s most fearsome opponent and the PDP”s presidential flag bearer, Atiku, He immediately became Atiku’s spokesperson, and maligned Tinubu whom he said he held in respect despite his initial promise.”

Oluwole said: “In view of his antecedents, and the implications of the utter falsehood that he peddles concerning this sensitive issue, Bwala should be cautioned not to jeopardize the commendable efforts of the Nigerian security apparatus especially the office of the Minister of State of Defence, Alhaji Bello Matawalle.

“Where on Earth did he confirm that the ministers might “be shown the way out”?

“We see his post as a baseless attack on the persons of the Defence ministers who have been leading the Nigeria’s security apparatus, especially the Armed Forces in the gallant fight against terrorists and bandits who, for many years before this administration assumed office, had been attacking and killing innocent Nigerians not only in the Northeast and Northwest zones of the country, but across the country generally.”

In his words: Oluwole said: “We wish to state, and it may interest Bwala to know that the Minister of State for Defence, Dr Bello Matawalle has swiftly moved in and directed the military to relocate its command structure to the North West as part of efforts to crush the bandits terroring the region.”

“And the fictitious writer insinuated in his post that the ministers were not working and that there was no harmony among the armed forces, the same armed forces that Matawalle has mobilised to the troubled zone to flush out the bandits, an operation he would supervise himself directly on the battlefield.

“We will advise Bwala, and his cohorts and paymasters to desist from peddling lies and falsehood just to malign their perceived enemies”

Specifically on Sunday, Matawalle, in an intensified move to crush banditry and terrorism in the Northwest, directed the nation’s top military brass led by the Chief of Defence Staff to relocate to Sokoto, the headquarters of the General Officer Commanding (GOC) for Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina, and Kebbi states.

Also, he assured the people of Sokoto, Katsina, Zamfara, and Kebbi states, and the entire North West region, that the security forces with all their might, would fight the criminals to finish and restore peace, as he directed the Armed Forces to flush out the bandits and terrorists.”

Matawalle said: “We must act decisively against these terrorists to allow our people to live freely. The time is up for these bandits and terrorists as increased and consistent operations will weaken all their bases.”

“I will be on the ground in the North West with the CDS and other military chiefs, leading our brave men and women in uniform.”

The Defence Minister of State stressed the determination of the President Tinubu administration to protect the lives and properties of all Nigerians, and that the people’s security and well-being remain the administration’s topmost priority. Besides, he urged the people of Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina, and Kebbi States to remain vigilant and cooperate with security forces.

Matawalle who described the incident as unacceptable in view of the support that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has been giving the Armed Forces, assured that the Federal Goovernment would do everything possible to crush banditry and terrorism, and endure peace in the troubled communities.

The ministry’s spokesman, Mr. Henshaw Ogubike, said in a statement on Sunday that “This strategic move underscores the government’s unwavering commitment to restoring peace and security in the region. While in the North West, they will supervise operations and ensure that Bello Turji and his bandit gang are eliminated.”

Joy  in Sokoto as FG Directs Defence Minister, Military Chiefs to Relocate Over Security Challenges

Fodio Zakari

The Federal Government’s directive for the Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Matawalle, and other military chiefs to relocate to Sokoto has sparked widespread jubilation among residents. The move aims to address the escalating security challenges in the North West region.

In interviews conducted by journalists in Sokoto on Sunday, residents praised the Federal Government for its commitment to finding a lasting solution to the menace of banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism. Malam Garba Mailambu, a trader, said the directive demonstrates the government’s intensified effort to restore peace and security in the region.

Dr. Habibu Ahmed Mada, an academician at Usman Danfodio University, Sokoto, described the move as a relief and a great service to humanity. He praised Minister Matawalle’s strategic approach, citing his successful track record in fighting insurgents during his tenure in the state.

Other residents, including Mr. Shehu Haruna and Mr. Ibrahim Dandare, commended the Federal Government’s efforts and urged the Minister to intensify supervision and ensure the flushing out of Bello Turji and his bandits gang.

The Coalition for Opposition Parties in Katsina also expressed support for the directive, praising President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Minister Matawalle for their foresight in deploying military assets to tackle insecurity challenges in the region.

According to Mr. Henshaw Ogubike, Director of Information and Public Relations at the Ministry of Defence, the relocation is aimed at ridding the North West of banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism. He cited a recent incident in Zamfara where bandits celebrated the stuck Nigerian military Armoured vehicle, emphasizing that such incidents are unacceptable.

Suggested headlines

  1. “FG Relocates Defence Minister, Military Chiefs to Sokoto to Tackle Security Challenges”
  2. “Sokoto Residents Jubilate as FG Moves to Crush Bandits, Terrorists”
  3. “Defence Minister Leads Military Chiefs to Sokoto to Restore Peace”
  4. “FG Declares War on Banditry, Kidnapping, Terrorism in North West”
  5. “Minister Matawalle Relocates to Sokoto to Supervise Anti-Banditry Operations”
  6. “Sokoto Becomes Base for Military Operations Against Bandits, Terrorists”
  7. “FG Moves to Flush Out Bello Turji, Other Bandits in North West”
  8. “Residents Hail FG’s Move to Tackle Insecurity in Sokoto, North West”
  9. “Military Chiefs, Defence Minister Relocate to Sokoto to Tackle Security Threats”
  10. “FG Vows to Restore Peace, Security in North West as Military Chiefs Relocate to Sokoto”