President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Friday received a detailed security briefing from Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, over renewed bandit attacks in parts of the state.
The closed-door meeting focused on the worsening insecurity in Alkaleri Local Government Area, where recent attacks have reportedly displaced several communities, claimed lives and heightened fears among residents.
Speaking after the meeting, Governor Mohammed said he updated the President on the activities of armed bandits in communities including Gwana, Kafin Duguri, Mansur, Yalau, Futuk and Digare. He disclosed that more than 10,000 well-armed bandits were believed to have infiltrated and occupied forested areas, using them as operational bases to launch attacks.
According to the governor, the bandits have carried out sporadic assaults, recruited locals and former illegal miners, and forced many residents to flee to neighbouring states, particularly Gombe.
He cited a February 22 attack on a Joint Task Force base in Gwana, which resulted in the deaths of two soldiers and a vigilante. The attack also led to the abduction of some residents, while security operatives reportedly neutralised several bandits during the confrontation.
Mohammed said he had visited affected communities on multiple occasions to assess the situation and encourage residents and local vigilantes. He stressed the urgent need for strengthened federal intervention, including enhanced military and police operations, additional equipment and clear operational directives to security agencies.
The governor described the President’s response as positive, noting that assurances were given that the Federal Government would reinforce ongoing efforts to stabilise the area and prevent further attacks. He added that directives had already been issued to security chiefs to intensify operations in the troubled zones.
Addressing political speculation surrounding his visit amid recent defections by some governors, Mohammed clarified that his meeting with the President was strictly security-related. He reaffirmed his commitment to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), stating that while governors are free to determine their political affiliations, his focus remains on addressing insecurity in Bauchi State.