The Niger State government has called on the Nigerian military to redeploy its forces to communities vulnerable to terrorist attacks within the state.
This appeal was made by the acting governor, Yakubu Garba, following a three-day prayer session for 13 people recently killed by bandits in Shiroro.
The victims, who were ambushed on their way to their farms in Anguwan village, lost their lives when the bandits attacked.
Garba highlighted that the withdrawal of troops from areas like Allawa has significantly undermined the state’s efforts to combat insecurity.
He urged the military to return to these critical areas to provide the necessary security, particularly for the farming communities.
The state government under Governor Bago has implemented strategies to enhance security, leading to safer travel on key roads within Shiroro local government area.
However, the recent attack has underscored the ongoing challenges in ensuring the safety of displaced farmers returning to their communities.
In the tragic incident, eight victims were shot by the bandits, while five others drowned in a river as they attempted to escape.
Family members of the victims shared their grief, with some noting that this was not the first time they had lost loved ones to such violence.
The acting governor was joined by the Emir of Minna, Alhaji Umaru Farouk, during the prayer session.
