..Seeks Tinubu’s intervention
Governor of Bauchi State, Bala Mohammed, on Friday raised concern over the growing activities of bandits in Alkaleri Local Government Area of the state, warning that the situation could escalate into a humanitarian crisis if not urgently addressed.
Speaking to State House correspondents after meeting with President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, Mohammed said he briefed the President on the deteriorating security situation, particularly around the Daji Dam axis and other ungoverned forest areas.
According to the governor, bandits have become emboldened and have taken over several ungoverned spaces in the area, leading to sporadic clashes with security agencies. Read alsoAmid PDP leadership crisis, INEC meets party leaders ahead of FCT polls
“We have seen some sporadic clashes and skirmishes between the bandits and security agencies, but it appears that the security agencies and all of us are overwhelmed and the situation is escalating to a level where it will become a big humanitarian crisis,” he said.
Mohammed noted that fear and panic have forced many residents to flee their homes to neighbouring states and safer local government areas, especially during the ongoing fasting period. Read also : Tinubu hosts Governors, urges unity, calls for State Police Reform
He said he had earlier visited the troubled area alongside heads of security agencies in the state, after which a detailed report was presented to the President, seeking special federal intervention.
Describing the President’s response as “very positive,” the governor disclosed that directives had already been issued and security agencies had swung into action, similar to ongoing operations in Kwara and Niger states.
The governor expressed particular concern that the bandits were targeting an economically strategic area with potential oil and gas deposits as well as significant mining activities.
“We cannot afford this bad development, especially at a time when Bauchi has enjoyed relative peace for nearly 10 years and is attracting investment interests,” he said.
Mohammed also revealed plans to collaborate with neighbouring states including Taraba, Plateau and Gombe to convene a joint security summit aimed at tackling criminal activities in contiguous forest areas.
On the issue of state policing, the governor reiterated Bauchi State’s readiness to adopt the system, arguing that it would reduce the burden on the Federal Government and enhance responsiveness at the subnational level.
“Security of life and property is the primary responsibility of government. Though it is expensive, state police is something that must be done,” he said, adding that improved security had previously boosted micro and macroeconomic activities in the state.
Addressing recent defections within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Mohammed reaffirmed his loyalty to the party.
“I have always said that I am a PDP man. I am not here for defection; I am here for governance and partnership,” he stated.
While acknowledging internal challenges within the party, he maintained that the PDP remains a strong national brand with deep grassroots presence across the country.
“Elections are won from the polling units, locally, not nationally. I am staying back,” the governor added.
