Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed has urged residents of Alkaleri Local Government Area to take up weapons and defend their communities against the escalating threat of banditry.
Speaking during a high-stakes visit to the Kafin Duguri and Gwana communities, which have been ravaged by recent attacks, the Governor declared that while the state would provide support, the primary responsibility for immediate defense now rests with the citizens.
“Alkaleri people, defend yourselves against these bandits,” the Governor stated. “No one will fight this war for you. You are brave people, and I am sure you can fight this war.”
The Governor’s directive follows a series of brutal assaults in the region, including a recent raid in Kafin Duguri that left four community members dead. However, the visit was also marked by a commendation of local resilience; the Governor noted that in a recent invasion, community members successfully repelled an attack, reportedly neutralizing over 20 bandits in a fierce counter-offensive.
To formalize this community-led security approach, Governor Mohammed announced that the state government is moving to recruit and train 2,000 youths into vigilante groups. These volunteers are expected to serve as forest guards and local defenders.
“All you need from the government is support to fight these bandits,” he said. “We will direct security personnel to give you the necessary training and weapons to protect yourselves.”
The Governor revealed that intelligence reports indicate approximately 10,000 well-armed bandits are currently operating within “ungoverned spaces,” specifically citing the Dajin Madam forest axis.
He warned that these criminal elements are actively recruiting locals and former illegal miners to bolster their ranks.
While advocating for self-defense, Governor Mohammed clarified that the initiative would remain within a legal framework.
He has already briefed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on the deteriorating situation, seeking a coordinated federal military intervention to complement the local efforts.
The Governor’s stance marks a significant shift in the state’s security strategy, moving toward a total-war footing that empowers grassroots resistance to fill the gaps left by overstretched federal forces.
