Matawalle, CDS, Service Chiefs storm Sokoto to eliminate bandits

Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, and Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, arrived in Sokoto State on Tuesday in compliance with President Bola Tinubu’s directive.

Upon their arrival, they held a closed-door meeting at the 8 Division of the Nigerian Army. During the hour-long meeting, the acting Commander of Operation Hadarin Daji briefed the Minister on the security situation in the region.

Speaking to journalists, Matawalle stated that their mission in Sokoto was to eliminate the bandits terrorizing the region.

He said, “We are here as directed by Mr. President, who called us from China and gave us marching orders to relocate to Sokoto, review our operations, and ensure the people of this region can sleep peacefully.”

Matawalle said that President Tinubu is deeply concerned about the ongoing security challenges in the Northwest and had instructed both him and the Chief of Defence Staff to prioritize the situation in Sokoto.

“Nigeria is a country governed by a constitution under a democratically elected President who is determined to leave a good legacy,” he added.

He stressed that the President’s deliberate selection of northerners for key positions to address regional security concerns.

“The President carefully appointed individuals from the North, including myself from Zamfara State, the Chief of Defence from Kaduna State, the Minister of Defence from Jigawa State, the National Security Adviser from Adamawa State, and the Minister of State for Police Affairs, also from the North. He knows our primary challenge is insecurity, and we are here to address it.”

Matawalle urged the troops to remain undeterred by recent incidents, assuring them of strong support. “The GOC will receive all necessary backing. I encourage you to continue your good work.

We are here to support you in eliminating bandits and criminals from this region.”

Additionally, the Minister donated ₦5 million to soldiers injured in the line of duty.