The Federal Government has directed the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, and his Service Chiefs to relocate to Sokoto State to combat banditry and terrorism.
The Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, disclosed the directive by the Federal Government on Sunday.
In a statement made available to journalists, Matawalle expressed sadness over the activities of terrorists and bandits terrorising Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina and Kebbi States, among others in the North West.
Matawalle therefore directed the Chief of Defence Staff and other military chiefs to relocate to Sokoto State, which is the military headquarters of Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina, and Kebbi states.
He said: “This strategic move underscores the unwavering commitment of the government to restoring peace and security in the region.
“While in the North West, they will supervise operations and ensure that Bello Turji and his bandits gang are flushed out.”
Matawalle also condemned the recent incident where bandits circulated videos of a Nigerian military armoured vehicle stuck in a water-logged area, saying it was “not acceptable”.
He assured that the Federal Government is deeply concerned about the persistent threat posed by banditry and terrorism in the North West and is ready to deploy all necessary assets to ensure that these criminal elements are flushed out.
He said: “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 minister also called on the people of Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina and Kebbi states to remain vigilant and cooperate with the security forces, reiterating the Federal Government’s resolve to protect the lives and properties of all Nigerians.
“The security and well-being of the people remain the government’s top priority,” he added.
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