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Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago has announced that he will neither engage in negotiations with bandits nor pay ransoms for individuals kidnapped in the state.
He also encouraged the citizens to rise up and protect themselves.
Bago made these remarks during a condolence visit to the communities of Rijau and Magama local government areas, which were recently attacked by bandits in Kontagora.
He stressed that paying ransoms would only incentivize further kidnappings and exacerbate insecurity within the state.
According to him, “The state has reached a point where the people must stand up and defend themselves. I will not negotiate with bandits. I will not pay ransoms. If we start paying, they will establish a base and continue to kidnap more people.”
He asserted that the Constitution grants citizens the right to protect their lives and property, stating that he would take all necessary measures to uphold this responsibility.
“We are surrounded by threats, but we will not surrender. The Constitution allows us to defend our lives and property, and we will do just that. There is no turning back,” the governor insisted.
Bago further stated that it is both embarrassing and unacceptable for communities to be invaded, resulting in residents becoming internally displaced persons.
The governor referred to the situation as a “state of war” and called for unified resistance from everyone.
To improve security, Bago announced plans to recruit and train 10,000 members for the joint task force and declared a complete ban on mining in Zone C of the state, citing illegal mining as a significant contributor to insecurity.
He also committed to supporting victims of the recent attacks, which includes compensation for the families of those who lost their lives, medical care for the injured, and assistance for those who lost their means of livelihood.
What is Governor Bago's stance on negotiating with bandits?
Governor Bago has declared that he will not negotiate with bandits or pay ransoms for kidnapped victims, emphasizing that doing so would encourage further kidnappings.
What measures is the governor taking to enhance security?
The governor plans to recruit and train 10,000 members for a joint task force and has imposed a total ban on mining in Zone C to combat illegal activities that contribute to insecurity.
How will the victims of the attacks be supported?
Governor Bago has pledged to provide compensation for the families of those who were killed, medical assistance for the injured, and support for those who lost their livelihoods due to the attacks.
