In a dire revelation, Representative Bello Hassan has disclosed that terrorists have wreaked havoc in Zurmi Local Government Area of Zamfara State, sacking approximately 50 communities and leaving a trail of destruction.
Speaking with BBC Hausa Service on Tuesday, Hassan, who represents Zurmi/Shinkafa Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, detailed the grim situation, highlighting rampant abductions, killings, and the displacement of countless residents.
According to Hassan, the assailants have inflicted untold suffering, resulting in the deaths of two police officers and three civilians. He painted a harrowing picture of the relentless attacks, with over 500 individuals feared abducted and countless others forced to flee their homes to escape the violence.
Describing the severity of the assaults, Hassan recounted recent atrocities, including the massacre in Kanwa village where three lost their lives and over 30 were abducted. He also cited the brazen attack in Gidan Shaho, where two police officers were slain, and numerous civilians were injured.
Expressing deep concern, Hassan called for urgent intervention from security agencies, stressing the need for a strategic overhaul in combating the escalating crisis.
He stressed the inadequacy of existing security measures, urging for the rotation of personnel who have overstayed their tenure in the region.
“The security operatives deployed in Zamfara State are insignificant,” Hassan lamented.
“Some have overstayed, some for eight years, others 10 years. They have stayed longer than necessary.”
Highlighting the strategic importance of Zurmi, Hassan emphasized the urgent need for reinforced security measures, given its proximity to neighboring states and the porous border with Niger Republic.
The alarming situation in Zamfara mirrors a broader security challenge across Nigeria’s northwest region, where communities in multiple states face relentless attacks from various terror groups.
Despite government efforts, the attacks persist, pointing to the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to restore peace and security to affected areas.