Kebbi Governor pledges N50m support for families of slain vigilantes

Kebbi State Governor, Dr. Nasir Idris, has pledged a N50 million donation to support the families of vigilantes killed and those injured in the Sunday attack by suspected Lakurawa bandits.

The governor made the announcement on Monday during a condolence visit to Yola District in Augie Local Government Area, where he expressed heartfelt sympathy to the families of the victims.

He described the financial assistance as a modest gesture by the state government aimed at offering support to the bereaved and those affected by the attack.

The Governor emphasized, however, that it should not be viewed as compensation for the tragic loss of lives.

Governor Idris, visibly moved by the incident, strongly condemned the repeated attacks, pointing to the failure of neighboring states to secure their borders effectively.

He stated that the bandits often infiltrate Kebbi from other states, carrying out their attacks before retreating to safer grounds, taking advantage of the inadequate security measures in those regions.

“We have been doing our best, unlike our neighbors,”; the governor remarked in a statement signed by his Special adviser in media and publicity, Yahaya Sarki.

“These bandits exploit the lack of proactive security strategies in neighboring states, entering Kebbi to carry out atrocities and fleeing without consequence.”;

Governor Idris also urged residents and vigilantes to avoid engaging the bandits directly, advising them to leave such operations to the security agencies in order to prevent further casualties.

He reiterated his administration’s commitment to ensuring the safety of all citizens and assured that every necessary resource would be deployed for this cause.

“We will continue to work tirelessly until peace is restored across every corner of Kebbi,”; he assured the people.

The governor further condemned individuals suspected of collaborating with the bandits by serving as informants, labeling their actions as destructive and unpatriotic.

In his remarks, the Emir of Argungu, Alhaji Samaila Mohammed Mera, praised the governor for his visit and the timely financial assistance.

He described the gesture as a vital support for the affected families and commended the state government for its continued efforts to address the region's security challenges.

The attack on Sunday saw suspected Lakurawa bandits launch coordinated raids on several villages, including Garu, Murai, Unguwar Ladan, Unguwar Mai Rakumi, Unguwar Mai Turu, and Binnani.

During the assault, the bandits rustled cattle and ambushed a group of vigilantes who were in pursuit, resulting in the deaths of about 16 vigilantes.