Bello Matawalle, Minister of State for Defence, claims President Bola Tinubu ordered him to evacuate due to banditry.
Matawalle stated in a statement released on Tuesday by Henshaw Ogubike, the ministry’s director of media and public relations, that his arrival in the state meant doom for bandits and their followers.
The military minister stressed the government’s commitment to addressing instability and that political leaders must support the president’s efforts.
He said:
“As directed by Mr. President, I am back to Sokoto state to assure the people of this great region of our commitment to achieving all necessary yardsticks in the fight against insecurity.”
“We will never leave you alone. I assure you, we will win this war against bandits and those supporting them to unleash terror against our people.
“We must collaborate with all stakeholders in this region to achieve our target. The federal government will continue to boost the morale of our soldiers and security agencies in this fight.”
Matawalle expressed his confidence in the ongoing military operation in the northwest zone.
He added:
“I am optimistic that our gallant troops will continue to record successes through Operation Fansan Yamma as we intensify our fight against these criminals.”
Matawalle promised to “relentlessly” fight robbers and their sympathisers, saying that the Tinubu administration will continue to prioritise life and property safety.