Katsina is hardest hit in banditry attacks in northwest, says Gov Radda

Governor Dikko Umar Radda of Katsina has described the state as the worst affected by banditry attacks compared to other states in the northwest region of the country.

Radda made this statement while receiving a visiting delegation from the National Commission for Refugees (NCFR), Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons, led by its Federal Commissioner, Tijjani Aliyu Ahmed.

He also highlighted nine frontline local government areas heavily impacted by banditry attacks and insecurity in the state, which are crucial food-producing areas and vital to the state’s economic development.

He identified the affected local government areas to include: Sabuwa, Faskari, Kankara Safana, Bakori, Jibia, Danmusa, and Batsari Dandume.

The governor further expressed regret that the state’s resources are being diverted towards security rather than being allocated to developmental projects and essential infrastructure.

He said: “I have spoken to President Tinubu on the security situation in the state, which he assured me of increased deployment of military and equipment.

"We shall carry out continuous sensitization and training of the local communities on how to confront banditry attacks, basic security and skills.”

The governor further assured his visitors that every single IDP in the state has been taken care of, especially in the area of rehabilitation and their restoration to normal lives.

He admitted that the security challenges facing the state though enormous, due to locations and the environments are surmountable.

The governor blamed poor efforts and support to security operatives from the communities when confronted by banditry attacks as responsible for heightened attacks.

Responding, the federal commissioner underscored the federal government’s concern over the activities of bandits in Katsina state.

He commended the government and people for their response to the challenges posed by the displacements.