Residents of Wurma Community in Kurfi Local Government Area of Katsina State on Friday staged a protest at Birchi Town to register their anger over the resurgence of banditry in the area.
The protest was coming hours after some suspected bandits with sophisticated weapons invaded the community on Thursday night which resulted in the loss of several lives and properties.
Although security agencies in the state are yet to comment on the protest, a resident in the area told Channels Television on a telephone call that the night attack on Wurma is the fifth of its kind in the community since the resurgence of banditry in the state.
Over the past two months now, there has been a spate of killings and kidnapping for ransom across the most vulnerable parts of the state.
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In the meantime, Governor Dikko Radda has visited the scene of the tragedy to personally assess the situation and offer solace to the affected community following the heart-wrenching protest, expressing his deepest sympathy for the victims of the recent bandits attack.
The Governor, however, called on the Federal Government to assist the state in the banditry fighting by sending more reinforcement.
He assured, to mobilize 100 security personnel to the affected Wurma Community, pledging to feed them daily.
Governor Radda, while sympathizing with the people, called on the Wurma community to nominate 10 people to meet him in the state capital so that he will know how to cushion their challenges, particularly as Ramadan fasting approaches.
In a statement issued to Channels Television by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor Ibrahim Kaula noted that the Governor further called on the protesters to channel their energies into supporting the JTF, CWC, and other security agencies.
He, therefore, acknowledged the community’s concerns, reiterating his unwavering commitment to fighting banditry and restoring peace to the region.
He emphasized that leadership is all about serving the people, adding that, their well-being remains his top priority.
“Your protest is genuine and I feel for you, but please remain calm as the government is doing all it can to stop this,” Radda said.
“Words cannot express the profound grief I feel for the families who have lost loved ones in this senseless act of violence,” Governor Radda said.
“My heart aches for the children who have lost their parents and the community that has been so deeply affected. I stand with you in this time of unimaginable pain and hardship.”
“I call for peace and unity within the community,” Governor Radda implored. “We must stand together against these barbaric acts and work collaboratively to overcome this challenge.
“I want to assure you that my administration is working tirelessly with security agencies to apprehend the perpetrators and bring them to justice. We will not rest until peace and security are restored to Katsina State”, he added.
The Governor’s visit and heartfelt message were met with appreciation from the community members who expressed their gratitude for his leadership and commitment to addressing their concerns.
While acknowledging the ongoing challenges, they reassured the Governor of their continued support for the government’s efforts to combat banditry.
