Dr. Sani Shinkafi, a prominent member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Executive Director of the Patriots for the Advancement of Peace and Social Development (PAPSD), has expressed strong support for the ongoing military operations led by the Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Matawalle, in the fight against banditry in Nigeria’s North West region, particularly in Sokoto State.
In a statement released to journalists in Abuja on Sunday, Dr. Shinkafi praised the recent successes achieved by the Nigerian military in tackling banditry, especially following the directive from President Bola Tinubu.
The President had urged top military officials, including Dr. Matawalle, to ramp up efforts in eradicating the security threats that have long plagued the region.
The military campaign, which has been ongoing for the past three weeks, has resulted in significant victories against armed bandits across several states in the North West, including Zamfara, Sokoto, Kebbi, Katsina, and Kaduna.
Shinkafi described the military’s achievements as one of the most well-coordinated operations in the country’s history, noting the high level of success in neutralizing notorious bandits.
In his statement, Shinkafi highlighted how the intensified military offensives have disrupted key bandit leaders such as Bello Turji, who have either been forced into hiding, surrendered, or faced severe consequences.
He commended Dr. Matawalle’s steadfast commitment to the fight against banditry and criminal activities like kidnapping, extortion, and violence, which have terrorized local communities for over 15 years.
Shinkafi emphasized that the recent success in the military campaign was not only a testament to Dr. Matawalle’s leadership but also a critical part of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which seeks to restore peace and security across Nigeria.
He urged Nigerians, particularly those in the affected regions, to unite in support of the military’s efforts, calling for solidarity rather than distractions or criticism from political opponents.
He also warned that individuals who attempt to undermine the military’s operations, be they politicians, clerics, or traditional rulers, are inadvertently aiding the bandits.
According to him, such actions only serve to embolden the criminal elements, making it harder for security forces to succeed in their mission.
“The ongoing military operations are crucial for the safety and security of the North West region, and there is hope that with the right leadership and coordination, banditry can be significantly reduced or even eradicated in the near future,” Shinkafi said.
He concluded by calling on all local leaders and citizens to support the government’s initiatives and work together towards building a safer Nigeria for everyone.
