Yahaya Bagobiri, chairman of the Faruruwa and Neighbourhood Security Committee in Shanono Local Government Area of Kano State, has urgently appealed to both the federal and state governments to intervene in the deteriorating security situation in the region.
Mr Bagobiri made this plea during a news briefing in Kano on Thursday, highlighting the alarming frequency of attacks by bandits in Faruruwa and surrounding communities.
He stated that residents have been living in constant fear due to ongoing assaults by bandits originating from Katsina State and other nearby areas since 2022.
“We have been grappling with severe security challenges since 2022. Bandits from Katsina and adjacent regions have been attacking us and nearby communities,” he explained. “That is why we are here to inform the press and draw the government’s attention to our plight.”
Mr Bagobiri lamented the loss of numerous lives and the theft of properties, including livestock such as cows, goats, and rams, due to these attacks.
“At least 1,600 cows have been rustled, along with several machines and motorcycles taken by the assailants,” he noted.
He mentioned that the communities most affected include Faruruwa, Kuraku, Goron-Dutse, Tsaure, and Yan-Shado, adding that some residents of border communities in neighbouring Tsanyawa have fled their homes due to repeated assaults.
According to him, the bandits, often travelling in large numbers on motorcycles, are armed with sophisticated weapons and launch attacks at any time of the day.
“Just two days ago, they invaded our area with about 50 motorcycles, each carrying three individuals—around 150 attackers—killing people and stealing livestock,” he added.
Mr Bagobiri expressed concern over the insufficient manpower of the Joint Task Force (JTF) deployed to the area, noting that the team consists of fewer than 15 personnel, which he deemed grossly inadequate for the vast terrain.
“How can 10 or 15 people confront over 150 armed men?” he questioned.
He mentioned that the situation has been reported to the police, stating that the police commissioner visited the community approximately three months ago, while an army commandant also visited the area two days prior.
However, he expressed disappointment that, despite these visits, the security presence in the affected communities remains lacking.
Mr Bagobiri also revealed that some victims have been compelled to pay ransoms for the release of kidnapped family members.
“For instance, one of our residents, Alhaji Haruna Gatali, paid ₦15 million to secure the release of his wife,” he disclosed.
He called on President Bola Tinubu and Governor Abba Kabir-Yusuf to bolster the presence of security agencies in the area to put an end to the persistent attacks.
“We sincerely hope the authorities will act swiftly to restore peace and security to our communities,” Mr Bagobiri concluded.
(NAN)
