• Home
  • Anti-Corruption
  • Fact-Check
  • Economy
  • National
    • Government
  • Security
  • Features
  • State
  • Event
    • PR Nigeria Award
  • E-Paper
Search
  • Home
  • About
  • Adverts
  • Contact
Sign in
Welcome! Log into your account
Forgot your password? Get help
Password recovery
Recover your password
A password will be e-mailed to you.
PRNIGERIA PRNigeria News
PRNIGERIA PRNIGERIA
  • Home
  • Anti-Corruption
    • Chinese nationals jailed in Lagos

      Court Jails Nine Chinese Nationals for Cybercrime in Lagos

      ASUU

      Tackle Corruption, Institutional Decay – ASUU Charges FG

      EFCC Arraigns Bauchi Accountant General Over N8bn Fraud as Court Sentences…

      PRNigeria logo fearured image

      EFCC Arraigns Ex-Convict, Other for Naira Abuse in Lagos

      EFCC Arrests 37 Suspected Internet Fraudsters in Ilorin

  • Fact-Check
  • Economy
    • Comptroller General Nigerian Customs Bashir Adewale

      Nigeria Customs Takes Anti-Money Laundering Fight to the Skies

      Comptroller General Nigerian Customs Bashir Adewale

      Nigeria Customs, ICPC and the Audit of Conscience

      Customs Diplomacy: Nigeria, Saudi Arabia Ink Mutual Assistance Deal

      Comptroller General Nigerian Customs Bashir Adewale

      Nigeria, Belarus Forge Alliance to Combat Smuggling, Facilitate Trade

      President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and CG Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi

      Tinubu Hails Customs Boss Wale Adeniyi on Historic Election as WCO…

  • National
    • ASUU

      “No Pay, No Work”: ASUU Orders Members to Commence Nationwide Strike

      Nigerian Navy's newest landing ship tank launched in Sharjah, UAE.

      From Lake Chad to the Atlantic: The Nigerian Navy’s Rise as…

      Police Officer

      Police Bust Kidnapping, Cult Gangs, Arrest 8 Suspects, Recover Weapons

      Shittu Yunus Shittu

      Can Nigeria Lead Africa’s AI Revolution? By Shittu Yunus Shittu

      162 years of the Nigerian Army celebrations

      The First Shot and the Long March: Reflections on 162 Years…

    • Government
      • ASUU

        “No Pay, No Work”: ASUU Orders Members to Commence Nationwide Strike

        NPF Champions Regional Security Collaboration as IGP Attends 13th AFRIPOL Meeting…

        At BRICS Summits, Tinubu Pushes for Equality in Global Finance, Health…

        Tinubu conference centre generates N700m in 3 weeks – Wike

        Soldiers

        Soldiers, forest guards to tackle insecurity in Kwara State

  • Security
    • Nigerian Navy's newest landing ship tank launched in Sharjah, UAE.

      From Lake Chad to the Atlantic: The Nigerian Navy’s Rise as…

      NPF Champions Regional Security Collaboration as IGP Attends 13th AFRIPOL Meeting…

      Police Officer

      Police Bust Kidnapping, Cult Gangs, Arrest 8 Suspects, Recover Weapons

      NDLEA Logo

      NDLEA Destroys Cannabis Farms, Seizes 345kg of Drugs, Arrests 37 Suspects…

      NAF Airstrikes, NAF Air, NAF jets

      Scores of Terrorists Eliminated as NAF Bombs Boko Haram Camps in…

  • Features
    • Nigerian Navy's newest landing ship tank launched in Sharjah, UAE.

      From Lake Chad to the Atlantic: The Nigerian Navy’s Rise as…

      What Life Really Looks Like for Nigerians Battling Sickle Cell, By…

      Shittu Yunus Shittu

      Can Nigeria Lead Africa’s AI Revolution? By Shittu Yunus Shittu

      162 years of the Nigerian Army celebrations

      The First Shot and the Long March: Reflections on 162 Years…

      From SDP to ADA to ADC: Can the New Opposition Coalition…

  • State
    • NPF Champions Regional Security Collaboration as IGP Attends 13th AFRIPOL Meeting…

      NDLEA Logo

      NDLEA Destroys Cannabis Farms, Seizes 345kg of Drugs, Arrests 37 Suspects…

      NAF Airstrikes, NAF Air, NAF jets

      Scores of Terrorists Eliminated as NAF Bombs Boko Haram Camps in…

      Troops of Operation FANSAN YANMA

      Troops Foil Coordinated Bandits Attacks, Rescue Kidnap Victims in Katsina

      The suspected notorious Militia member

      Troops Nab Notorious Militia, Recover Weapons in Plateau State

  • Event
    • Asiwaju Adegboyega Solomon Awomolo

      47 Years of Excellence: Honoring Asiwaju Awomolo, SAN

      NCoS inmates

      58 Inmates in Kano Sit for 2025 NECO Exams, Thanks to…

      Troops of the Nigerian Army giving a salute

      162nd Anniversary: Tinubu Salutes Nigerian Army, Hails Troops as Guardians of…

      President & Chairman of Governing Council, Dr. Ike Neliaku

      NIPR Lauds Nigerian PR Firms for Outstanding Performances at 2025 SABRE…

      SCN NGO signs partnership with PRNIGERIA

      SCN NGO Seals Partnership with PRNigeria to Amplify its Humanitarian Projects

    • PR Nigeria Award
  • E-Paper
Home Features Reporter’s Diary: A Journey Through the ‘Heart of Banditry’ in Nigeria
  • Features
  • Security

Reporter’s Diary: A Journey Through the ‘Heart of Banditry’ in Nigeria

By
Kabir Abdulsalam
-
May 4, 2024
Defence Correspondent and officers of 1 brigade Nigerian Army
Defence Correspondent and officers of 1 brigade Nigerian Army

Reporter’s Diary: A Journey Through the ‘Heart of Banditry’ in Nigeria

By Kabir Abdulsalam

Ever since I began covering defence and security with PRNigeria, a security-focused online news platform, I have developed a deep emotional connection with the Nigerian military, given our country’s lingering security challenges.

From Boko Haram’s insurgency in the Northeast to banditry plaguing the Northwest and Northcentral, kidnappings in the Southwest, IPOB militancy in the Southeast, and oil bunkering in the South-south, the weight of these conflicts pressed heavily.

The true gravity of the situation struck me when I was embedded with a team of journalists on a mission to understand the brutal reality of banditry in Nigeria’s Northwest and witness the operations of our troops on the ground. This wasn’t just about broadening my knowledge; it was about forging a sense of ownership in the fight for peace.

On April 19th, 2024, I received an invitation to join a group of defence correspondents on a tour of Sokoto State, sponsored by the Defence Headquarters. A mix of anticipation and apprehension bubbled within me. The gravity of the situation in this region, ravaged by armed banditry and violence, wasn’t lost on any of us.

We were divided into four teams, each assigned a different military theater of operations, and we embarked on our journey. I, along with journalists from various media outlets, joined Team B embedded with Operation Hadarin Daji.

Brigadier General Mohammed Dahiru Abumawashi, the Deputy Director of Defence Media Operations, led our team. The aim was to assess the troops’ performance, gain firsthand experience of their success stories, interact with them, locals, and government officials, and ultimately bridge the gap between the military and the media.

Landing at Sokoto Airport on April 22nd, we were briefed by military officials led by Major General Godwin Mutkut, the General Officer Commanding 8 Division and Commander of Joint Task Force Northwest. His words painted a stark picture of the operational challenges in Sector 3 of Operation Hadarin Daji, particularly along the borders with Zamfara and Niger Republic. The intricate dynamics of the conflict became increasingly apparent.

Through conversations with Major General Mutkut, we gained valuable insights into the military’s strategy. Targeted operations aimed at dismantling bandit enclaves were a priority, but so was minimizing civilian casualties. However, allegations of civilian casualties in recent operations lingered, and he highlighted the complexities of counterinsurgency campaigns in densely populated areas.

Following the briefing, we were welcomed by Garrison Commander 8 Division, Brigadier General Alex Tawasimi. From there, we proceeded to Goronyo Local Government Area to interact with troops at the Forward Operation Base (FOB) Goronyo, residents, and some rescued kidnapping victims.

General Godwin Mutkut,
General Godwin Mutkut,

A heavily escorted convoy transported us – one heavy military truck at the front, two Hilux vehicles flanking each side for maximum coverage. Captain Magagi, a man whose gaze spoke volumes of countless patrols, greeted us at Goronyo.

He spoke of “violent extremism” and “banditry,”. Here, banditry wasn’t just a news headline; it was the constant threat of shattered lives, kidnappings, and killings.

Our encounters with victims emphasized the human cost of this crisis. Pastor Sunday Ede, one of the freed victims, narrated the tale of abduction and torture gripping these communities before the troops intervened. Yet, there were also stories of resilience and gratitude for the military, which risked their lives to protect the innocent.

We had an extensive interview session with local government council officials, where the Sole Administrator, Hon. Kabir Shehu Sarkin Fulani, and the Secretary, Alhaji Shehi Isah, provided a comprehensive analysis of security activities. The local administrator spoke of improved security due to cooperation with the military. Captain Magagi, the commander, who championed the several rescue operations, was seen as a symbol of hope in the minds of the community.

The council boss, speaking through the secretary, said, “The insecurity in this area…was horrible… Now, because of personnel on ground…the banditry is reducing.” He acknowledged the local government’s contribution to supporting security agencies’ operations.

One particularly impactful encounter was with Ms. Lami Dahiru, a woman just rescued by the military that very day. She recounted the nightmare that when armed assailants raided her community under the cover of darkness. Along with four others, she was snatched from her home. Ms. Dahiru described the terrifying situation. Hope was restored when soldiers pierced the silence.

Read Also:

  • “No Pay, No Work”: ASUU Orders Members to Commence Nationwide Strike
  • From Lake Chad to the Atlantic: The Nigerian Navy’s Rise as a Force for National and Continental Stability By Musa Ilallah
  • NPF Champions Regional Security Collaboration as IGP Attends 13th AFRIPOL Meeting in Algeria

“We walked through the night without rest, without food or water,” she recalled, her voice trembling. “The next day, the torment continued. They warned us of imminent death…” Just when hope seemed lost, the arrival of the troops was a godsend. ”

one of the rescued victim

Their gunfire shattered the forest’s stillness, scattering the kidnappers. Soldiers pursued the assailants deeper into the woods, while others ushered the terrified villagers to safety. “We were rescued without paying any ransom,” Ms. Dahiru concluded, her eyes filled with gratitude.

The time spent prompted our late return to Sokoto for the night.

The following morning, after breakfast, we embarked on a three-hour journey to Gusau, the capital of Zamfara State. There, Colonel Joseph Umaru, the Chief of Staff of Headquarters, I Brigade, Sector 1 OPHD, welcomed us on behalf of the Commander, Brigadier General Sani Ahmed, who was away on assignment.

Colonel Umaru provided a detailed briefing on their operational activities, successes, and the history of banditry in Zamfara. He addressed concerns about bandit-controlled zones, but emphasized “civilian collaborators” within communities, casting a long shadow.

“We understand the importance of fuel and food to the bandits,” he explained.

Brigadier General Mohammed Dahiru Abumawashi, Deputy Director Coordination of Media Operations and Emir of Kwatarkwashi, Highness Abubakar Ahmad Umar
Brigadier General Mohammed Dahiru Abumawashi, Deputy Director Coordination of Media Operations and
Emir of Kwatarkwashi, Highness Abubakar Ahmad Umar

“We’ve taken steps to disrupt their supplies, closing markets in remote areas where they sell stolen livestock.” However, the presence of these “loyalists” complicated matters. He recalled an incident where soldiers apprehended two vehicles loaded with soft drinks, a known source of sustenance for bandits.

“The community defended them, claiming they were legitimate businessmen,” Colonel Umaru said. “Without concrete evidence, we had to release them.” He also mentioned restricting fuel sales in certain areas, requiring clearance from military commanders to ensure buyers weren’t bandits or collaborators.

Meanwhile, our journey continued to Kwatarkwashi, a community in Bungudu Local Government Area heavily impacted by banditry. We met with His Royal Highness Abubakar Ahmad Umar, the Emir of Kwatarkwashi, to enlightening us on the issues. He offered insights into the root causes of the conflict, including foreign involvement and the exploitation of mineral resources.

He also highlighted the detrimental influence of politics and informants, while emphasizing the need for a united front against insecurity.

Following this interaction, we witnessed a live demonstration by FOB Sector 1 officers showcasing their combat readiness. Here, we were told about the enemy’s tactics which differed across other regions. While the military adapted its counter-terrorism strategies to secure Nigerian territories, the bandits continuous methods of ambushing the troops is of great concern.

However, a local who confided in us, revealing their hesitation to provide information to the military for fear of retaliation by bandit and their collaborators who come after them after the military raid.

“They [bandits] know everything we do,” admitted an FOB commander. “Their informants are everywhere.”

This underscored the need for more than just military action. The military needed to bolster their non-kinetic approach, building trust and encouraging information sharing. Public awareness campaigns could galvanize support and encourage citizens to report suspicious activity. Additionally, fostering a sense of shared responsibility among the populace could help dismantle bandit support networks. Collaboration between intelligence officers from various security agencies was also crucial for a more comprehensive approach.

As I reflect on this 3-day experience, one thing becomes undeniably clear: defeating banditry in northern Nigeria requires a multifaceted strategy. Military operations alone cannot prevail, but addressing socio-economic inequalities, political divisions, and fostering trust between citizens and security forces are equally critical. Only through a collaborative effort that includes the government, security forces, traditional leaders, and the broader community can lasting peace be achieved.

After leaving Sokoto and Zamfara, I carried a renewed sense of purpose to shed light on the plight of those affected by this crisis and advocate for a holistic approach to restoring peace and security in the region.

Kabir Abdulsalam is a Staff Writer with PRNigeria can be reached via: [email protected]

VISIT OUR OTHER WEBSITES
PRNigeria.com EconomicConfidential.com PRNigeria.com/Hausa/
EmergencyDigest.com PoliticsDigest.ng TechDigest.ng
HealthDigest.ng SpokesPersonsdigest.com TeensDigest.ng
ArewaAgenda.com Hausa.ArewaAgenda.com YAShuaib.com
  • TAGS
  • Alhaji Shehi Isah
  • General Godwin Mutkut
  • Goronyo Local Government Area
Previous articleCSOs Demand Suspension of Politicians Facing Corruption Charges
Next articleMatawalle visits Shettima, calls for loyalty to President Tinubu
Kabir Abdulsalam
Kabir Abdulsalam
Xing

RELATED ARTICLESMORE FROM AUTHOR

Nigerian Navy's newest landing ship tank launched in Sharjah, UAE.

From Lake Chad to the Atlantic: The Nigerian Navy’s Rise as a Force for National and Continental Stability By Musa Ilallah

NPF Champions Regional Security Collaboration as IGP Attends 13th AFRIPOL Meeting in Algeria

Comptroller General Nigerian Customs Bashir Adewale

Nigeria Customs Takes Anti-Money Laundering Fight to the Skies

What Life Really Looks Like for Nigerians Battling Sickle Cell, By Hafsat Ibrahim

Police Officer

Police Bust Kidnapping, Cult Gangs, Arrest 8 Suspects, Recover Weapons

NDLEA Logo

NDLEA Destroys Cannabis Farms, Seizes 345kg of Drugs, Arrests 37 Suspects in Edo

NAF Airstrikes, NAF Air, NAF jets

Scores of Terrorists Eliminated as NAF Bombs Boko Haram Camps in Mandara Mountains

Troops of Operation FANSAN YANMA

Troops Foil Coordinated Bandits Attacks, Rescue Kidnap Victims in Katsina

NAF bombardment of terrorists' enclave mounted with solar panels

NAF Airstrikes Crush Terrorist Camps in Mandara Mountains, Kill Senior JAS Fighters

The suspected notorious Militia member

Troops Nab Notorious Militia, Recover Weapons in Plateau State

Shittu Yunus Shittu

Can Nigeria Lead Africa’s AI Revolution? By Shittu Yunus Shittu

Tinubu to Troops: You Have My Full Backing to Crush Terrorists, Separatists

Recent Posts

  • “No Pay, No Work”: ASUU Orders Members to Commence Nationwide Strike
  • From Lake Chad to the Atlantic: The Nigerian Navy’s Rise as a Force for National and Continental Stability By Musa Ilallah
  • NPF Champions Regional Security Collaboration as IGP Attends 13th AFRIPOL Meeting in Algeria
  • Nigeria Customs Takes Anti-Money Laundering Fight to the Skies
  • What Life Really Looks Like for Nigerians Battling Sickle Cell, By Hafsat Ibrahim
  • Home
  • About
  • Adverts
  • Contact
© 2020 PRNigeria. All Rights Reserved.
Latest News
"No Pay, No Work": ASUU Orders Members to Commence Nationwide StrikeFrom Lake Chad to the Atlantic: The Nigerian Navy’s Rise as a Force for National and Continental Stability By Musa IlallahNPF Champions Regional Security Collaboration as IGP Attends 13th AFRIPOL Meeting in AlgeriaNigeria Customs Takes Anti-Money Laundering Fight to the SkiesWhat Life Really Looks Like for Nigerians Battling Sickle Cell, By Hafsat IbrahimPolice Bust Kidnapping, Cult Gangs, Arrest 8 Suspects, Recover WeaponsNDLEA Destroys Cannabis Farms, Seizes 345kg of Drugs, Arrests 37 Suspects in EdoGroup Condemns Amaechi’s Comment as Inciteful, DangerousScores of Terrorists Eliminated as NAF Bombs Boko Haram Camps in Mandara MountainsTroops Foil Coordinated Bandits Attacks, Rescue Kidnap Victims in KatsinaNAF Airstrikes Crush Terrorist Camps in Mandara Mountains, Kill Senior JAS FightersAt BRICS Summits, Tinubu Pushes for Equality in Global Finance, Health SystemsTroops Nab Notorious Militia, Recover Weapons in Plateau StateCan Nigeria Lead Africa’s AI Revolution? By Shittu Yunus ShittuTinubu to Troops: You Have My Full Backing to Crush Terrorists, Separatists
X whatsapp