The federal government and the military have been urged to sustain the ongoing fight against banditry, as it is the only option left to restore peace and stability in the Northwest zone.
Addressing newsmen in Gusau, Zamfara State capital, farmer, Auwal Babangida said that the bandits have caused significant economic damages in the zone, noting it is the reason for food insecurity.
“Banditry is responsible for the collapse of agricultural activities, hence the escalation of foodstuffs price, as farmers are not allowed by bandits to do their farming activities.
“The federal government, which is responsible for the security of lives and properties of citizens, seemed to have been sleeping but has now woken up from its slumber”.
Babangida noted that the government cannot treat the issue of security of lives and properties with a mere wave of hand.
He advised the federal government to ensure that it exposes the sponsors of banditry and bring them to justice, irrespective of their positions.
“No individual is above the power of the government unless the government does not want to respond effectively”
“It has become very imperative for the government to take action and find out the unseen hands behind banditry, especially as some prominent individuals have been pointing accusing fingers at each other over involvements in banditry.
The farmer recalled that three Emirs and many district heads were dethroned in Zamfara State, over alleged banditry, “but they are still moving freely in the country.
“Again, lawmakers in the State House of Assembly, a traditional leader and a former local government chairman were arrested and detained over alleged banditry, but nobody can exactly tell how the case ended.”
He insisted that the bandits in the Northwest were not operating on their own, saying it was the duty of the federal government and security agencies to uncover the unseen hands.