The National Chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, has called for decisive military action to reclaim Nigeria’s forests from bandits as a critical step to ending the persistent security challenges in the country.
Ganduje made this statement during a sympathy visit to Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umar Bago, following the tragic tanker explosion that claimed the lives of dozens of citizens last week. The visit underscored the APC’s solidarity with the people of Niger State in their time of grief.
In a statement released by his Chief Press Secretary, Edwin Olofu, on Thursday in Abuja, Ganduje emphasized the need for proactive measures to tackle banditry, specifically targeting the criminal elements who use the nation’s forests as hideouts.
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“The solution to this menace is to conquer the forests. The bandits are in the forest. Why have we been on the defensive instead of being on the offensive?” Ganduje queried.
He cited his experience as governor of Kano State, where he facilitated the military’s takeover of the Falgore forest.
This initiative, which included the establishment of a military training ground, successfully drove bandits out of the area, contributing to Kano’s relative peace.
Ganduje lauded Governor Bago for his efforts to maintain peace in Niger State despite the state’s vast landmass and numerous forests, which pose significant security challenges.
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In his response, Governor Bago expressed gratitude for the APC leadership’s show of solidarity. He used the opportunity to highlight the need for federal intervention in addressing critical infrastructure issues in the state, particularly the deplorable condition of the Suleja-Minna road.
He noted that improving infrastructure would not only enhance safety but also prevent accidents and ease transportation for residents.
The tanker explosion, which has left a scar on the hearts of many in Niger State, has reignited discussions on both security and infrastructure development in Nigeria.
DailyTrust