Northern Civil Society Coalition Backs Military's Anti-Banditry Directive in North-West
A prominent northern civil society coalition has voiced its strong endorsement of recent directives issued by Chief of Defence Staff Olufemi Oluyede to troops engaged in counter-banditry operations across Nigeria's North-West region. The group, known as the Northern Peace and Security Accountability Network, emphasized that this stance reflects the critical urgency required to tackle the persistent and escalating insecurity plaguing the area.
Coalition's Press Briefing in Kano
Speaking at a press briefing held in Kano, the coalition's zonal coordinator, Ibrahim Mahmood Sani, highlighted the severe hardships faced by communities in states such as Zamfara, Katsina, Sokoto, and parts of Kaduna. He noted that these areas have endured years of relentless attacks, kidnappings, and mass displacement, creating a humanitarian crisis.
Sani stated that the military's renewed operational posture, particularly under the framework of Operation Fansan Yamma, indicates a significant and welcome shift in approach. "The directive to intensify operations against criminal elements shows a clear recognition of the immense scale of the challenge and the absolute necessity for sustained and decisive action," he asserted.
Leadership Involvement and Operational Coordination
The coalition also referenced the defence chief's recent visit to operational areas, including troop engagements in Gusau, Zamfara State. They noted that such direct interactions demonstrate a commendable level of leadership involvement in field operations, which is crucial for morale and strategic oversight.
According to the group, improved coordination among various security agencies and enhanced collaboration between air and ground forces have already begun to yield measurable results in some of the most affected areas. This integrated approach is seen as a key factor in disrupting bandit activities.
Call for Broader Support and Troop Welfare
Sani described the ongoing Operation Fansan Yamma as a vital national framework for systematically tackling banditry. He called for broader and more robust support from state governments, local communities, and other civil society organizations to complement military efforts.
He also emphasized the paramount importance of troop welfare, discipline, and professionalism. "The effectiveness of these operations depends not only on sound strategy but also on the conditions under which our personnel operate. Prolonged engagements require sustained morale, adequate resources, and unwavering institutional support," Sani explained.
Community Cooperation and Civilian Rights
The coalition issued a strong appeal to residents across the North-West region to actively cooperate with security agencies. They urged the public to provide credible and timely information while strictly avoiding any form of support for armed criminal groups.
It added that community engagement remains a critical component in dismantling entrenched criminal networks, especially in rural areas where local knowledge can significantly aid intelligence gathering and operational planning.
Simultaneously, the group called on security forces to maintain the highest standards of respect for civilian rights during all operations. They stressed that building and retaining public trust is essential for achieving long-term success and stability in the region.
Cautious Optimism for the Future
Expressing a sense of cautious optimism, the coalition stated that sustained military operations, coupled with broader societal and governmental collaboration, could help stabilize the affected areas over time. They believe that a consistent and comprehensive approach is the pathway to restoring peace and security to the troubled North-West region.
