Governor Umaru Bago declares total war on Niger State bandit attacks, refuses ransom payments, bans mining, and recruits 10,000 task force members for security.
Governor Umaru Bago has renewed his commitment to defeating insecurity by declaring total war on Niger State bandit attacks.
He urged residents to defend themselves, vowing that his administration would neither pay ransom nor negotiate with criminals under any condition.
Speaking during a security visit to Rijau and Magama local government areas — communities recently hit by Niger State bandit attacks — Governor Bago said the situation had reached a dangerous point that demanded united community resistance.
He condemned the rising wave of kidnappings, killings, and destruction of farmlands as unacceptable and vowed to restore peace and confidence among citizens.
According to the governor, paying ransom only strengthens the criminals and turns kidnapping into a profitable business.
“I will not negotiate with bandits, and I will not pay ransom,” Bago said firmly.
“Once you start paying, they will open shop on our heads and continue kidnapping people.”
Governor Bago described the growing insecurity as a “state of war” and emphasized that every citizen has a constitutional right to defend their life and property.
He announced that the state government would recruit and train 10,000 personnel into a Joint Task Force (JTF) to protect rural communities from Niger State bandit attacks.
“These men and women will be trained, equipped, and deployed across high-risk zones,” the governor said.
“We are surrounded by enemies, but we will not give up. Our people must rise in unity to defend their land.”
He added that the task force would work with the Nigerian Army, Police, and Civil Defence Corps to strengthen intelligence gathering and ensure rapid response to distress calls.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Print Media, Aisha Wakaso, Governor Bago also declared a total ban on all mining activities in Zone C of Niger State.
The ban affects eight local government areas: Magama, Kontagora, Rijau, Wushishi, Mariga, Borgu, Mashegu, and Agwara.
Bago explained that illegal mining had become one of the major causes of insecurity and that many of those involved had links with criminal groups responsible for Niger State bandit attacks.
“It is suspicious that miners can enter forests freely, yet bandits don’t touch them,” he said.
“I have directed the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) to arrest anyone found mining illegally.”
He stated that the government would not lift the ban until it creates a regulated, transparent system that ensures accountability, safety, and community benefit.
Governor Bago stressed that ending Niger State bandit attacks requires not only military efforts but also social and economic intervention.
He announced plans to expand agricultural support programs, create youth employment opportunities, and establish small-scale industries to reduce poverty and discourage young people from joining criminal gangs.
“Security is not just about guns and bullets,” he explained.
“It is about giving people hope and legitimate livelihoods. Once we address unemployment and idleness, we weaken the foundation of crime.”
He praised traditional rulers, local vigilante groups, and community leaders for their bravery and cooperation.
Bago urged all residents to remain vigilant, share intelligence with authorities, and take collective ownership of their security.
“Our communities must take charge of their safety,” he said.
“The government will provide tools and coordination, but we must all stand together to end these attacks once and for all.”
Governor Bago reiterated that his administration would never yield to fear or compromise with lawbreakers.
He revealed that modern surveillance technology, including drones and community alarm systems, would be deployed to monitor movements in forested areas prone to Niger State bandit attacks.
He assured displaced persons of government support, promising relief materials, resettlement aid, and assistance in rebuilding destroyed homes and farms. The Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, he said, has been directed to lead rehabilitation efforts.
Bago concluded with a message of hope and determination: “We are determined to reclaim our land and restore peace. Niger State will not bow to fear or lawlessness. Together, we will overcome these bandit attacks and make our state safe again.”
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