FOLLOWING renewed attacks by armed bandits in parts of Kebbi, the state government has announced plans to review existing laws to impose the death penalty or life imprisonment on convicted informants aiding the criminals.
Governor Nasiru Idris made this known on Tuesday during condolence visits to Tadurga village in Zuru and Kyebu in Danko/Wasagu Local Government Areas, both recently targeted by bandits in attacks that claimed 30 lives.
Describing informants as “deadly to society,” Governor Idris reaffirmed his administration’s zero-tolerance stance on insecurity and promised to treat the issue with utmost seriousness.
To bolster security, the governor revealed that arrangements had been completed to establish a military operational base in the Zuru Emirate. He added that Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) and other essential security equipment had already been deployed from Abuja to the state.
Expressing sorrow over the tragic loss of lives, the governor prayed for the victims, asking Allah to grant the deceased Aljannah Firdausi and a quick recovery to those injured.
“We are here to see things for ourselves, commiserate with you, and reassure you of the urgent steps we have taken to improve security,” he told residents.
Governor Idris also detailed the government’s investments in security, noting the procurement of 80 Hilux vehicles for security personnel, 1,500 motorcycles for vigilantes, and increased allowances for operatives stationed in high-risk areas.
He urged the public not to politicise security issues or spread unverified information on social media, warning that such actions could jeopardise ongoing efforts to restore peace.
In their responses, the Chief of Danko, Ibrahim Al’aji, and the Chief of Dabai, Suleiman Sami, thanked the governor for his swift intervention and called for enhanced security measures, particularly along routes used by bandits entering from neighboring states.
The Emir of Zuru, Rtd. Major General Sani Sami also expressed appreciation for the governor’s visit and ongoing commitment to security in the emirate.
