Former Sokoto State Governor and current Senator Aminu Tambuwal disclosed that, during his tenure as governor, he engaged with bandits through unofficial channels. He made the revelation while discussing Nigeria’s banditry problem on Channels Television’s programme *Politics Today*.
Tambuwal described banditry as a complex issue involving both foreign and local elements. He traced its roots to instability in the Sahel region—particularly in Libya—which has facilitated an influx of arms into Nigeria. The porous nature of Nigeria’s borders, he said, allows foreign actors to participate in banditry, exacerbating the problem.
Distinguishing bandits from Boko Haram, Tambuwal noted that Boko Haram has a clear command structure and ideology, whereas bandits are driven primarily by criminality and financial gain. He added that bandits often fight among themselves, making their motivations and leadership structures difficult to discern.
The surge in banditry has devastated many Nigerian communities, leading to kidnappings, killings and other forms of violence. The government’s response has drawn criticism for failing to address the root causes of the crisis. Tambuwal’s comments underscore the need for a multi‑faceted approach that considers the historical context—dating back to the 1980s—and emphasizes better border control and regional, international cooperation.
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