Governor Bago urges Niger residents to defend themselves
Governor Mohammed Umar Bago of Niger State has called on residents to defend themselves against bandits terrorizing their communities. Speaking during a public address, the governor said he would never negotiate with criminal groups who continue to attack innocent people in the state.
Bago emphasized that his administration is determined to restore peace and security across Niger State, but citizens must also take responsibility for their own safety. He stated that the government cannot be everywhere at once, adding that people have the right to defend their lives and property against any form of aggression.
According to the governor, banditry has become a major threat to peace, and negotiating with criminals only emboldens them to continue their attacks. He noted that his government is investing in security infrastructure and collaborating with military and paramilitary agencies to ensure that communities are adequately protected.
Governor Bago also warned political leaders and traditional rulers against collaborating with bandits, saying that anyone found aiding or hiding criminals would face prosecution. He reiterated that his administration is focused on promoting peace through strength, not compromise.
The governor assured residents that the Niger State Government will continue to provide logistics, equipment, and financial support to security agencies to improve their response to bandit attacks. He urged communities to form vigilante groups and cooperate with security personnel to keep their areas safe.
Bago’s firm stance reflects growing frustration with the persistence of insecurity in many parts of northern Nigeria, where kidnapping and banditry have disrupted farming, trade, and education.
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