Governor Mohammed Umar Bago of Niger State has urged residents to take up arms and defend themselves against the increasing wave of bandit attacks across the state.
He emphasized that his administration will not negotiate with kidnappers or pay ransom for victims, warning that such actions only encourage further criminal activities.
During a visit to the communities of Rijau and Magama in Kontagora, recently affected by bandit attacks, Bago stressed the urgency of self-defense measures. He stated, “The state has reached a point where the people must stand up and defend themselves because ransom will only turn kidnapping into a thriving business.”
The governor described the frequent invasions and displacement of residents as “embarrassing and unacceptable.” To strengthen security, he announced plans to recruit and train 10,000 personnel into a Joint Task Force (JTF) aimed at restoring peace across the state.
Bago also imposed a total ban on all mining activities in Zone C of Niger State, covering eight local government areas: Magama, Kontagora, Rijau, Wushishi, Mariga, Borgu, Mashegu, and Agwara. He linked illegal mining to insecurity, explaining that miners often access forest zones unharmed while local communities continue to suffer repeated attacks.
The governor directed the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) to arrest anyone violating the mining ban. He further assured victims of support, including compensation for families of the deceased, medical treatment for the injured, and assistance for those who lost their livelihoods.
Bago’s firm stance on not negotiating with bandits reflects a proactive approach to tackling insecurity in Niger State. By empowering residents to defend themselves and strictly enforcing laws, his administration aims to curb banditry and restore peace to affected communities.
