The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has commenced a high-level investigation into claims of bandit sponsorship in Nigeria’s troubled North-West.
The allegations stem from a heated exchange between Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal and Minister of State for Defence Bello Matawalle, each accusing the other of ties to bandit groups destabilizing the region.
In response, Lawal has vowed to present evidence to National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, while Matawalle challenged him to swear innocence on the Holy Qur’an.
During a media briefing, Director of Defence Media Operations, Edward Buba, confirmed that the military is actively involved in the probe.
“Relevant agencies are working on this, and soon, there will be updates,” Buba said, adding that the military is determined to break the will of the bandits.
As part of ongoing operations, over 65 key terrorist leaders were neutralized, and nearly 2,800 suspects were arrested, with more than 1,800 hostages rescued in the third quarter of 2024.
Troops also seized illegal weapons and recovered crude oil worth over N13 billion, underscoring their relentless efforts to restore security in the region.
Source: The Cable
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