Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed has called for urgent federal intervention following deadly attacks by armed bandits in the state’s Alkaleri Local Government Area. The governor made the appeal on Tuesday during an on-the-spot assessment visit to the affected Ghana District, where recent assaults resulted in the deaths of security personnel and civilians, along with numerous abductions.
Describing the incident as tragic, Governor Mohammed expressed profound concern that the violence had recurred in his home area of Duguri (Kafin Duguri), despite improvements in other parts of Bauchi. He noted that while banditry has been significantly reduced in regions such as Toro, Ningi, Ganjuwa, and Jama’are, the resurgence in Duguri represents a serious security setback.
During his visit, the governor briefed residents on his recent discussions with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in Abuja. He stated that the President offered condolences to the grieving families and assured them of federal support. Mohammed emphasized that state security agencies are currently overwhelmed and require enhanced weaponry and logistics to effectively combat the pervasive threat of armed banditry across the country.
The governor praised the resilience and courage of the Kafin Duguri community, noting that their active resistance had forced the attackers to flee. He affirmed that the Bauchi State Government has assumed full responsibility for the medical treatment of all injured victims. Furthermore, he announced plans to recruit and train additional local vigilantes in collaboration with the Nigeria Police Force to bolster community defence.
Governor Mohammed urged residents to remain united and cooperate with security agencies, assuring them that his administration would continue working closely with federal security forces and traditional rulers to restore lasting peace. He prayed for the souls of the deceased and stressed that the government would not relent until stability is fully re-established in Duguri and surrounding communities.
Commissioner of Police Sani-Omolori Aliyu, who was also present, echoed the call for community vigilance. He urged residents to promptly report any suspicious movements or individuals to security authorities, highlighting that public cooperation is critical in disrupting criminal operations and achieving security synergy.
The attacks underscore the persistent challenge of armed banditry in Nigeria’s northwest, a crisis characterized by raids on rural communities, kidnappings for ransom, and frequent clashes with security forces. Governor Mohammed’s visit and demands for federal support spotlight the strain on local resources and the urgent need for a coordinated national strategy to protect vulnerable villages and restore confidence in the region’s security architecture.
