By Segun Adewale in Bauchi
Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Abdukadir Mohammed has pledged full support to strengthen security operations of vigilante groups in Gwana district, Alkaleri Local Government Area, following a recent deadly bandits attack.
This was as Governor Bala Abdukadir Mohammed Governor called for urgent federal intervention following the deadly bandit attack on some Duguri communities in the state.
Four people were killed when the bandits riding over one hundred motorcycles attacked Kafin Duguri and Gwana communities, prompting the governor’s sympathy visit where he praised vigilantes for preventing the criminals from overrunning residents nearby settlements.
He assured victims that the state government would take full responsibility for medical bills of those injured, reaffirming commitment to protect lives and restore normalcy across affected communities without delay.
The Governor said he briefed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on the incident, noting the President pledged to complement Bauchi State Government efforts in addressing criminality and enhancing security operations across the state.
He said security agencies are currently overwhelmed and require improved weapons and logistics to effectively tackle the situation.
According to him, the President expressed condolences to the affected families, and assured them of federal support as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces.
He commended the courage of the Kafin Duguri people, noting that their resistance forced the attackers to flee.
The Governor described the community as resilient and deeply rooted in their ancestral land, where farming remains the major source of livelihood.
The Governor said banditry has been largely contained in other parts of the state but stressed that the government will not rest until peace is fully restored in Duguri and surrounding areas.
He announced plans to recruit and train more local vigilantes in collaboration with the police, while assuring that the Bauchi State Government has taken full responsibility for the medical treatment of the injured victims.
Governor Mohammed prayed for the souls of those who lost their lives and called on residents to remain united and cooperate with security agencies as efforts continue to secure the area.
The state Commissioner of Police Sani Omolori Aliyu assured to deploy additional personnel to the troubled area, urging vigilantes to work closely with police and other security agencies for successful operations.
Earlier, the Emir of Duguri, Alhaji Adamu Muhammad, thanked the governor for the visit and described the attack as a painful setback for the community.
He appealed for sustained security presence and greater government support to prevent future attacks and ensure lasting peace in the area.
The Emir commended the State Government for timely provision of relief materials to the victims and reaffirmed support for coordinated security measures.
