By Ibrahim Sidi Muh’d, Gusau
Residents across various communities in Zamfara State have commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Mohammed Matawalle, over the improved security situation witnessed during the Eid-el-Kabir celebrations in the state.
The residents, who thronged major streets in Gusau, Kaura Namoda, Talata Mafara and other parts of the state during the festivities, expressed satisfaction with the relative peace recorded in recent weeks, particularly before and during the Sallah celebrations.
Speaking with journalists, many residents attributed the development to intensified military operations and coordinated security measures that led to the liberation and return of several communities previously displaced by bandit attacks.
They noted that the improved security situation enabled many families to return to their homes and celebrate the festive season without fear of attacks or disruption.
A political leader from Maru Local Government Area, Idris Abubakar Dangulbi, described the peaceful atmosphere as a result of renewed military offensives initiated by the Federal Government under President Tinubu’s administration.
He also commended the strategic interventions and support provided by the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, towards restoring peace in the state.
Another resident, Malam Ibrahim Lawal, said the improved security enabled residents to travel freely and celebrate Eid-el-Kabir with relatives and loved ones.
“This is one of the few festive periods in recent years where many families could move around with less fear. Markets were active, roads became busier, and people attended prayers peacefully,” he said.
Similarly, traders in major markets across the state reported increased commercial activities during the Sallah celebrations, attributing the development to growing public confidence occasioned by improved security.
A foodstuff dealer in Talata Mafara, Rukayya Sani, said businesses recorded higher patronage compared to previous years.
“We thank the government and security agencies for their efforts. This Sallah was more peaceful, and many traders recorded better sales because people were confident enough to come out and celebrate,” she stated.
Also speaking, Chairman of the Zamfara State Progressive Development Union (ZAPPU), Dr. Aliyu Sadauki Gusau (Makaman Garewa), praised security personnel deployed to flashpoints across the state, noting that their visible presence contributed significantly to maintaining peace during the celebrations.
He urged the Federal Government and security agencies to sustain ongoing operations against banditry and other criminal activities in the North-West region.
According to him, continuous support through improved logistics, intelligence gathering and community engagement would help consolidate the gains already achieved.
A security expert, Major Ibrahim Musa Danmairogo (rtd), also expressed optimism that ongoing military operations would further restore lasting peace and stability across Zamfara State and neighbouring areas.
“The gallant troops battling day and night to ensure the safety of the people deserve commendation. The improved security along the Zamfara, Katsina and Sokoto corridors is encouraging and gives hope to farmers, travellers and other residents,” he said.
