Former Senator and member of the Niger Delta Development Commission, Abdullahi Gobir, has backed renewed military operations against terrorists, bandits and other criminal elements operating in Sokoto East and other vulnerable parts of Sokoto State.
Gobir, in a statement issued on Tuesday, said persistent attacks on rural communities had become a serious threat to lives, agriculture, livelihoods and economic activities in the state.
He called for the sustained deployment of security forces until criminal networks responsible for killings, abductions and displacement were dismantled.
“The people of Sokoto have endured enough. Terrorists and bandits must not be allowed to dictate the future of our communities or hold innocent citizens hostage through fear and violence,” he said.
Gobir commended the Nigerian Army, Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps and Community Guards Corps for intensifying operations against criminal groups.
He said the deployment of additional personnel and military equipment to vulnerable areas showed the authorities’ efforts to reclaim communities affected by insecurity.
The former senator, however, said military force alone could not end the security crisis without effective intelligence gathering and community cooperation.
“Intelligence is the eyes of every successful security operation, and communities must become the eyes and ears of our security agencies,” he said.
He urged residents to provide security agencies with credible and timely information on suspicious movements, criminal hideouts and planned attacks, while warning individuals who harbour, finance, shield or provide logistical support to terrorists and bandits.
“Such actions are a dangerous betrayal that can cost the lives of brave security personnel and expose entire communities to devastating attacks,” he warned.
He urged residents of affected communities to remain calm and vigilant, saying sustained military operations, improved intelligence, community support and greater coordination among security agencies would help restore peace and enable farmers, traders and other residents to resume normal activities.
Insecurity: Ex-senator, Abdullahi Gobir backs renewed military offensive in Sokoto