Influx Of Bandits: North East Governor's Forum Raises The Alarm
*Calls on FG to act without delay
The North East Governors’ Forum, NEGF, has raised the alarm over ongoing high influx of bandits in some states of the sub-region.
The alarm is contained in a statement issued at the end of its 8th council meeting which took place in Maiduguri, the Borno state capital.
According o the statement signed by the forum's chairman, who doubles as the governor of the state, Babagana Zulum, the group noted that in spite of the successes recorded in the fight against terrorism and banditry, there is however, a growing dimension in banditry which is worsening security situation in the region.
This is particularly the case in states like Bauchi, Gombe and Taraba
“While acknowledging the relative success recorded against insurgency, a new dimension of growing banditry is added to worsen the security situation in the subregion. The forum calls on the Federal Government to urgently intervene to address the issue.”
The forum also noted with concern another frightening aspect of the development. It said some traditional rulers and local authorities are conniving with the bandits by offering them shelter and cover to commit heinous crimes, noting however, that member states will deal decisively with any traditional ruler or local authority found wanting.
“The forum is aware that some traditional rulers and other local authorities are conniving with the bandits, giving them shelter and cover to commit crimes within the sub region. The forum unanimously resolved to decisively deal with any traditional ruler or community leader that is found to be harbouring or conniving with the bandits,” the communique noted.
Among other concerns, the forum noted that the proliferation of illegal mining in the sub region has also resulted in the increase of insecurity given the link between the two.
It therefore urged the federal government to begin the enforcement of extant minor laws with the provision of local content as contained in the country’s mining policy, particularly in line with the provisions of the Land Use Act.
In addition, the forum noted that climate change and and consequent environmental degradation are posing grave danger that affect the sub region very negatively, citing last year’s flooding that devastated both livestock and property, thus rendering the people helpless.
“This has been compounded by the silting of our rivers as well as deforestation brought about by the massive charcoal business. There is the need for the Federal Government’s intervention in the area of de-silting the rivers,” the statement read in part.
What's Your Reaction?
