Residents of Kebbe Local Government Area in Sokoto State have cried out to the Federal Government, pleading to be allowed to bear arms for self-defence following persistent attacks by suspected members of the Lakurawa terror group.
Speaking to journalists in Sokoto on Saturday, a community leader, Alhaji Adamu Kebbe, said the people can no longer endure the unending killings and destruction of properties by the marauding bandits who have continued to terrorize the area without restraint.
According to him, the communities have been left at the mercy of criminals as both local and state authorities appear to have abandoned them to their fate. He lamented that the government’s response has been too slow and inadequate to tackle the worsening insecurity.
“We can no longer sleep with our two eyes closed. Our people are being wiped out daily, yet the government is doing little to protect us,” he said in anguish.
The residents also appealed to the Federal Government to grant direct funding to local governments so they can strengthen their local security outfits and respond swiftly to attacks when they occur.
Kebbe further noted that Sokoto State remains one of the worst-hit by banditry in northern Nigeria, with emerging terror groups such as the Lakurawa and the notorious gang led by Bello Turji wreaking havoc across Isa, Sabon Birni, and Kebbe LGAs.
Residents insisted that the government’s current measures fall far below what is needed to secure their lives and properties, warning that they may be left with no choice but to defend themselves if authorities fail to take urgent action.
“If the government cannot protect us, then allow us to protect ourselves,” they declared.
The call from Kebbe residents adds to growing concerns over rising insecurity in the North-West region, where banditry and terrorism have displaced thousands and disrupted socio-economic activities.
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