President Bola Tinubu has been urged to intervene urgently and provide comprehensive security support to protect the people of Katsina State from escalating attacks by suspected bandits.
Acting Governor of the state, Farouk Lawal Jobe, made the appeal following an attack by bandits early Tuesday morning at Unguwan Mantau community, Malumfashi Local Government Area, in which 13 persons were killed while praying in a public mosque.
The state has recently experienced a surge in attacks by bandits, particularly in the southern part of the state, where the farming season is currently at its peak.
It was gathered that bandits often use the greenery to hide and lay ambush for unsuspecting farmers and other community members, abducting them for ransom or worse.
Jobe said there was a critical need for immediate presidential action to end the persistent threats facing innocent citizens in some parts of the state.
“We respectfully request the President to give matching orders to all security agencies to bring a decisive end to these unprovoked attacks on our peaceful communities,” Jobe said.
“The people of Katsina State deserve to live in safety and pursue their livelihoods without fear,” he added.
He further said, “Our farmers, traders, and families should not have to live in constant fear. We need our President’s direct intervention to mobilise all necessary resources and provide the security architecture our state requires.”
The acting state governor, however, expressed gratitude to security agencies for their tireless effort in combating the security challenges bedevilling the state.
He said, “We acknowledge and appreciate the efforts of our security personnel who continue to risk their lives to protect our communities. Their dedication and sacrifice do not go unnoticed.”
He particularly commended the exemplary role of the state government-established Community Watch Corps (CWC) and Vigilante groups for standing firm in defending people against criminal elements.
He assured citizens of the government’s continued commitment to working with federal authorities and security agencies to restore lasting peace and stability to the state.
