The Presidency has raised the alarm over the alleged relocation of unrepentant bandits from Zamfara and Katsina states to neighbouring states and beyond.
Amina Shamaki, permanent secretary, Special Services, Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, made this known at the Federal and States Security Administrator’s Meeting in Jalingo.
Shamaki expressed concern to the security managers and members of the public.
According to her, “This is an indication that those unrepentant bandits are making efforts to escalate the menace to other areas”.
She noted that some states in the North-Central and South-West geopolitical zones have started experiencing upsurge in kidnap incidents being perpetrated by the dislodged bandits.
The permanent secretary enjoined states that were faced with banditry to take a leave from the initiative of Zamfara government by engaging repentant fellows in continued dialogue.
She stressed the need to critically examine the peace initiative in such a way that would prevent the bandits from one area to another with relative ease.
She encouraged security agencies to intensify efforts aimed at degrading the capacity of armed bandits and deny them freedom of movement and action.
The permanent secretary commended the efforts of both the governor of Taraba and Benue to bring lasting solution to Tiv/Jukun crisis in Taraba state.
According to her, the governors are working closely with the Federal Government to facilitate and support early resolution of the impasse through effective peace building process.
In his speech, Yassy Dogari, permanent secretary, Home Affairs, Office of the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), said that the meeting would serve as a platform for sharing of information and to enhance intelligent evaluation among security managers.
He said that the planned commencement of Operation Ayem-Akpatuma 11 in the state would go a long way in addressing the security challenges in the state and assured that the state government would support any initiative aimed at for stalling social disorder in the state.
BDSUNDAY gathered that participants were drawn from all security agencies and paramilitary services as well as representatives from other states.
Chairmen of local governments, chairmen of board and parastatals were also in attendance.
Nathaniel Gbaoron, Jalingo
