Reps Seek Urgent Anti-bandit Operations In Kebbi

Torkwase Nyiekaa

The House of Representatives has called on the Nigerian Air Force, Nigerian Army, Nigeria Police Force, and other security agencies to conduct coordinated clearance operations in Soda Forest, Bagudo LGA, the Suru hills, and across Kebbi State to dismantle bandit hideouts and restore peace.

The call followed a motion of urgent public importance on Wednesday, highlighting the rising insecurity in the state after three Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) personnel were killed in an attack on the Bakin Ruwa outpost in Bagudo LGA. Lawmakers stressed the need for swift, coordinated action to protect lives and property.

Sponsored by Hon. Bello A. Ka’oje, the motion noted that Bagudo LGA shares a border with the Republic of Benin and hosts key security installations, including the NIS outpost at Bakin Ruwa, the Nigeria Customs Service facility at Maje, and multiple police posts.

The House recalled that on 27th November 2025, Lakurawa bandits attacked the Bakin Ruwa NIS outpost, killing three officers. This followed earlier incidents, including the killing of a customs officer at Maje Customs outpost on 10th November and the death of a police officer at Maje police outpost on 19th October.

Lawmakers expressed concern that bandits are establishing bases in Soda Forest and the Suru hills to hide victims and plan attacks. They warned that without immediate intervention, banditry in Kebbi could worsen sharply.

In solidarity, the House observed a minute of silence for the slain officers and called on the Department of State Services (DSS) and National Intelligence Agency (NIA) to strengthen intelligence sharing and cross-border monitoring along the Nigeria–Benin corridor, especially in Bagudo LGA.

The House also commended the Federal and Kebbi State governments, security agencies, local vigilantes, traditional rulers, and community leaders for rescuing twenty-four schoolgirls abducted from Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School Maga in Danko-Wasagu LGA. Lawmakers urged adequate compensation for the families of the slain officers and directed relevant House committees to monitor the implementation of these resolutions.

Expressing deep concern over the deteriorating security in a state once considered peaceful, the House emphasized the urgent need for decisive action to prevent further loss of lives and property.