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The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Abdullahi Ganduje has suggested military conquer of the forests as solution to banditry and insurgency in Nigeria.
He wondered why security operatives have been on the defensive instead of being on the offensive, since the bandits operate in the forests.
A statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Edwin Olofu, said Ganduje made the suggestions during a sympathy visit to Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umar Bago.
During the visit, Governor Bago appreciated the solidarity of the APC leadership and urged the Federal Government to address critical infrastructure, such as the Suleija-Minna Road, to reduce accidents and improve safety in the state.
“I’m standing before you on behalf of Nigerlites; we really appreciate this visit. We are doing a lot to create awareness among our people about the dangers of scooping fuel whenever such an accident occurs”, he said.
To effectively address banditry in Nigeria, Ganduje emphasised the need for proactive and decisive measures, particularly targeting the criminal elements hiding in forests.
The APC chairman outlined a strategy centered on offensive security operations and praised the efforts of Governor Bago in maintaining peace within the state despite its vast landmass and numerous forests.
Ganduje expressed concern about the reactive approach often adopted by security agencies.
He advocated for military intervention in forests, as successfully implemented during his tenure as Governor of Kano State, where the Falgore Forest was transformed into a military training ground, eliminating criminal activities in the area.
Ganduje said, “We are here to pray for our friend, our brother and the good people of Niger State. We sincerely condole with the government and the good people of Niger State, the families of the deceased and the injured ones.
“We appreciate how you keep Niger state safe because Niger State has the largest land mass and with the highest number of forests in the country which is a herculean task to keep the peace within its environs.
“Your Excellency, the solution to this menace is to conquer the forest. The bandits are in the forest, why have we been on the defensive instead of being on the offensive?
“When I was the Governor of Kano State, I requested through the Federal Government that the military takes over Falgore Forest and the military built a military training ground there. That was how bandits were chased away from that forest and Kano is at peace.“
Ganduje also conveyed condolences to the people of Niger State over the recent tanker explosion that claimed numerous lives, offering prayers and support to the families of the victims.
Friday Olokor
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