The Patriots for the Advancement of Peace and Social Development (PAPS) have commended the Defence Headquarters’ decision to investigate those financing banditry in Nigeria’s North West region.
In a statement released on Saturday, the Executive Director of PAPS, Dr. Sani Abdullahi Shinkafi, described the probe as a necessary step toward ensuring lasting peace, security, and development in the region, long plagued by violence.
PAPS highlighted the alarming increase in kidnappings, killings, and the displacement of innocent civilians in the area due to rampant banditry. Dr. Shinkafi emphasized the need for a unified military effort to dismantle these criminal elements and restore stability.
He also called for a full investigation of those who are politicizing the insecurity for their personal gain, urging that anyone found guilty should face justice, irrespective of their political status.
The group expressed strong support for ongoing military operations, praising the Defence Headquarters’ efforts under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu.
Shinkafi noted the success of military campaigns that have led to the neutralization of several notorious bandit leaders, including Kachalla Halilu Sububu and Jamilu Nazakiru, who had terrorized rural communities in the region.
Shinkafi also lauded the collaboration between the Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Matawalle, and the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, both of whom were directed by President Tinubu to relocate to the North West to coordinate efforts against banditry. These initiatives have, according to PAPS, significantly reduced the influence of armed groups in the area.
Addressing unfounded claims linking Dr. Matawalle to armed bandits, Shinkafi dismissed them as politically motivated attempts to tarnish the minister’s reputation.
He asserted that these accusations were part of a larger effort by opponents to destabilize the government’s push for peace and security.
Dr. Shinkafi urged Nigerians to reject media blackmail and baseless accusations, highlighting Dr. Matawalle’s significant contributions to national security.
According to PAPS, Matawalle’s role in President Tinubu’s cabinet is essential to the success of the government’s “Renewed Hope” agenda aimed at restoring peace and stability across the nation.
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