The Northern Youth Forum (NYF) has commended the Nigerian military’s recent successes against banditry in the North-West region, expressing hope that the activities of bloodthirsty bandits may soon come to an end.
The group’s reaction follows the relocation of the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, and military chiefs to Sokoto State, as directed by President Bola Tinubu on September 1. The move aims to tackle the growing security crisis, particularly banditry, in the region.
Notable successes include the elimination of notorious bandit commander, Kachallah Buzu, and several of his fighters in Zamfara State on Thursday night. Additionally, reports indicate that popular bandit leader, Turji Bello, has fled the region due to the heavy military presence.
NYF President, Alhaji Bagudu Mohammed Kudu, stated, “Hope has finally returned to the North-West… We have always believed in the capabilities of our Armed Forces… President Tinubu’s decision to send Matawalle and service chiefs to the theatre of operation has filled the gap, and the results are evident for all to see.”
The group praised the Minister’s presence for energizing the troops and bringing a new sense of purpose to the operation, leading to the bandits’ disarray and flee.