The Katsina State Government has reiterated its commitment to eradicating banditry and criminality, urging all stakeholders to sustain the security momentum to ensure a peaceful and prosperous state.
Speaking on behalf of Governor Dikko Umaru Radda, the Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasiru Mu’azu Danmusa, emphasized the importance of collective action in tackling insecurity. He stressed that security forces, traditional rulers, local vigilantes, and citizens must continue working together to completely expose and dismantle criminal networks across the state.
> “Having achieved significant success, we must not relent. We need to keep up the fight, expose and smash every remaining element of criminality, and secure a peaceful Katsina for all,” he stated.
Katsina’s Troubled Past: Insecurity at Its Peak
Dr. Danmusa recalled the dire security situation when he assumed office on May 29, 2023, highlighting that 24 local government areas (LGAs) were severely impacted by bandit attacks, kidnappings, and cattle rustling. He described a state under siege, where communities lived in constant fear, and economic activities had been crippled due to relentless attacks.
> “The magnitude of insecurity we met on the ground was alarming. Almost all LGAs were under siege, with rampant killings, kidnappings, and rustling. It was a dire situation that demanded urgent action,” he stated.
Government’s Response: A Security-Focused Ministry
In response to the escalating crisis, Governor Radda’s administration made security a top priority, leading to the creation of the Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs. The ministry was designed to tackle internal security challenges head-on, ensuring better coordination and swift intervention against criminal elements.
Dr. Danmusa noted that one of the key strategies implemented was establishing a strong synergy between security agencies in the state. This multi-agency collaboration played a crucial role in the success of counter-banditry operations, leading to a remarkable turnaround in many affected areas.
> “We created a robust, coherent, committed, and consistent synergy among security agencies. This approach has yielded impressive results in our fight against insecurity,” he stated.
Turning the Tide: 16 LGAs Freed from Bandit Control
Within 10 months of strategic security operations, the state government successfully liberated 16 LGAs that were previously under severe bandit influence. Even frontline LGAs that were once hotbeds of criminal activities are now experiencing relative peace, particularly in their headquarters.
Dr. Danmusa attributed this achievement to sustained military operations, intelligence-driven policing, and community-based security initiatives. He noted that the progress recorded so far should not lead to complacency, warning that criminals may attempt to regroup if security efforts weaken.
> “We have made tremendous progress, but we must remain vigilant. The battle is not over until every trace of criminality is wiped out from Katsina,” he added.
A Call for Collective Action
Dr. Danmusa urged security forces, local leaders, and citizens to remain proactive in exposing criminal elements. He emphasized that achieving a completely secure and economically vibrant Katsina requires continuous effort, collaboration, and commitment.
> “Security is a shared responsibility. The government has played its part, and we urge the people of Katsina to remain alert, report suspicious activities, and support our security agencies in keeping the state safe,” he concluded.
As Katsina State continues to make giant strides in its fight against insecurity, the government remains resolute in its mission to ensure lasting peace, stability, and prosperity for all its residents.
Abdullahi Inuwa Social Commentator ainuwa303@gmail.com
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