Concerns over renewed bandit attacks in parts of Bauchi State took centre stage on Friday as Governor Bala Mohammed met with President Bola Tinubu in Abuja to brief him on the security challenges affecting communities in the state.
Speaking to State House correspondents after a closed-door meeting with President Bola Tinubu in Abuja on Friday, the governor said he provided updates on developments in Alkaleri Local Government Area, where armed groups have reportedly intensified activities in forested areas.
Mohammed said the situation has become increasingly difficult for security agencies, noting that confrontations between operatives and criminal elements have continued in locations around forest corridors linked to neighbouring states.
He expressed concern that fear and displacement are spreading among residents, particularly during the ongoing fasting period.
According to him, many families have fled to other local government areas and adjoining states to seek safety. He stressed that the growing instability could strain social services if not urgently addressed.
The governor said he sought presidential support for stronger coordinated action, adding that he received assurances of immediate attention to the matter. He noted that the President had issued relevant directives to security authorities for further intervention.
Mohammed also called for enhanced collaboration among governors of states sharing borders with the affected areas, proposing a regional security meeting involving security chiefs to develop lasting solutions.
He maintained that Bauchi has enjoyed relative stability in recent years and warned that continued insecurity could threaten ongoing economic activities, particularly in sectors attracting investment interest.
Reiterating his long-standing position, the governor advocated reforms aimed at strengthening grassroots security structures, insisting that improved local security arrangements remain critical to addressing emerging threats across the region.
About the Author
