The Nigeria Democratic Congress governorship candidate in Kano State, Aminu Gwarzo, has condemned the recent attacks by suspected bandits in four local government areas of the state, calling for urgent security measures to protect residents and their livelihoods.
Gwarzo, in a statement issued on Tuesday by his spokesperson, Ibrahim Shuaibu, expressed sympathy with victims of the attacks and their families, particularly residents of Chiromawa in Garun Mallam Local Government Area, Beli in Rogo, Bebeji and communities around Gwarzo.
“These attacks pose a disturbing threat to lives, livelihoods and economic activities. Rural residents must not be forced to abandon their homes, farms and businesses because of the activities of criminal elements,” Gwarzo said.
He said the government must urgently strengthen security operations in vulnerable communities and prevent criminal groups from establishing footholds in rural areas.
“Every life lost to banditry is a painful reminder of the urgent need to strengthen our security architecture. We must not allow our people to become prisoners in their own communities,” Gwarzo said.
He commiserated with families who lost loved ones and sympathised with residents who sustained injuries, were displaced or were otherwise affected by the attacks.
The candidate called on security agencies to intensify intelligence gathering, surveillance and targeted operations in vulnerable communities, stressing that credible threats should trigger rapid intervention.
“The government must act decisively to protect lives, secure communities and restore confidence among our people,” he said.
Gwarzo also urged authorities to identify and close security gaps that could enable bandits, kidnappers and other criminal groups to operate in rural communities.
He commended security personnel for their efforts against criminal elements, urging them to sustain intelligence-led operations and improve rapid-response mechanisms in communities identified as vulnerable.
The NDC candidate appealed to residents to remain vigilant and provide credible information to security agencies, saying timely intelligence could help prevent attacks, rescue abducted persons and facilitate the arrest and prosecution of perpetrators.
He warned that persistent insecurity could undermine agricultural production and economic activities, particularly as farmers, traders and other residents struggle to access their farms, businesses and communities without fear.
“Farmers, traders and other residents must be able to access their farms, businesses and communities without fear. Sustainable economic development, agricultural productivity and social progress cannot be achieved without peace and security,” Gwarzo said.
He prayed for the repose of those killed and the safe return of abducted victims, while urging affected communities to remain united and resilient in the face of the security challenges.