Governor Umaru Bago of Niger has imposed a dusk-to-dawn curfew in the capital city, Minna, in response to increasing incidents of violence and crime. The measure, he said, could be extended to more areas if security conditions do not improve.
Governor Bago noted that motorcycles (Okada) and tricycles (Keke NAPEP) are being used by criminals to carry out violent acts, adding that security agencies will crack down on criminal activities throughout the state.
Speaking during a meeting with traditional leaders and security heads in Minna, the governor vowed to personally lead the effort to rid the city of violent elements.
“Any house found to be harbouring criminals will be demolished, while buildings where hard drugs are sold will as well be destroyed,” he stated. He warned local leaders to keep track of residents and pledged zero tolerance for lawlessness.
While Niger takes preventive steps, Benue State was once again thrown into mourning as 11 people were reportedly killed in a fresh herders’ attack on Afia community in Ukum Local Government Area.
The attack, which took place in the early hours, was confirmed by the Ter Ukum, HRH Iyorkaa Kaave, who pleaded with federal authorities to act swiftly.
“Please tell President Tinubu that we will not live with murderers as herdsmen,” he said.
The National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, visited Benue and assured residents that the federal government is determined to defeat terrorism.
“We will defeat it. The country is with you,” he said, adding that the government inherited a deeply troubled security situation but is working hard to resolve it.
Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia described the state as being “under siege,” noting that over 70 lives have been lost in recent weeks. “This is carnage. The attackers speak Fulani and Hausa and it’s a deliberate attempt to displace our people,” he stated.
He revealed that the state had procured 100 Hilux vehicles and 600 motorcycles for security support but warned that the state remains largely defenceless. “We do not have AK-47s. We are helpless,” the governor lamented.
Traditional rulers from Tiv and Idoma communities have also held meetings to discuss ways to confront the rising threat. Prominent leaders attended closed-door sessions in Gboko and Otukpo to strategize on security measures.
