The Federal Government on Saturday, August 31, ordered the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle and other military chiefs to move to Sokoto State to rid the Northwest region of activities of bandits, kidnappers and terrorists.

In a statement issued by the director of information and public relations, Ministry of Defence, Henshaw Ogubike, FG said the relocation, is part of an intensified effort to rid the region of the menace of banditry, kidnapping and terrorism.

According to Ogubike, FG is saddened over the activities of terrorists and bandits in the states and expects that the move would underscore its unwavering commitment to restoring peace and security in the region.

Ogubike also quoted the minister as saying that while in the Northwest, they would supervise operations and ensure that Bello Turji – a notorious kidnapper in Sokoto – and his Bandits gang are flushed out.

He said, “These criminal bandits have been circulating videos of a Nigerian military Armoured vehicle that was stuck in a water-logged area.

“And late in the night the officers were asked to withdraw to avoid being ambushed by bandits, later in the night the bandits went to the water-logged area, recording video of the Armoured vehicle that was stuck and celebrating it.

“This incident happened in kwashabawa, Zurmi Local Government Area in Zamfara, this is not acceptable as President Bola Tinubu has been giving great support to the Armed Forces of Nigeria, Ogubike said in the statement.

In addition, he noted that the Nigerian government is ready to deploy every necessary asset to ensure that these criminal elements are flushed out and peace is restored to our communities.

Matawalle was quoted saying, “I will be on the ground in the North West with the CDS and other military chiefs, leading our brave men and women in uniform.

“I also call on residents of these states to remain vigilant and cooperate with the security forces as the Federal Government has resolved to protect the lives and properties of all Nigerians.

“The security and well-being of the people remain the government’s top priority,” the minister added.