Title: Former Governorship Candidate Backs Probe of Banditry Sponsorship in Nigeria’s North West Region
In a significant move, Sani Shinkafi, a former governorship candidate and ex-aide to the immediate past governor of Zamfara State, Bello Matawalle, has publicly endorsed the Defence Headquarters’ decision to investigate the sponsorship of banditry in Nigeria’s North West region. Shinkafi, who spoke on behalf of the Patriots for the Advancement of Peace and Social Development, described the probe as a welcome development and long overdue in the quest for sustainable peace, security, and development in the region.
The situation in the North West has been marred by brutal violence, with reports of killings, kidnappings for ransom, destruction of property, imposition of levies and taxes, and displacement of communities. Shinkafi urged the military to launch a concerted onslaught to crush these criminal elements and restore national security.
The probe, which is expected to involve a thorough investigation into the activities of those supporting or perpetuating banditry, has been met with support from Shinkafi, who believes that any individuals or groups found culpable should face the full weight of the law, regardless of their status or position.
Shinkafi’s statement also highlighted the success of the military in the region, citing several notable instances where notorious bandits leaders have been eliminated or neutralized. He praised President Bola Tinubu for directing the Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Matawalle, and the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, to relocate to Sokoto and coordinate the fight against banditry.
The directive has yielded positive results, with the elimination of several bandits leaders and the restoration of peace and stability in affected areas. Shinkafi’s endorsement of the probe is seen as a significant boost to the military’s efforts to curb banditry and restore national security in the North West region.
Source: Media Talk Africa
Word Count: 390 words
