By: Zagazola Makama

Armed bandits are reportedly planning coordinated retaliatory attacks across parts of Zamfara State following recent large-scale security operations that resulted in significant losses among their ranks, including the killing of a notorious kingpin’s son and several commanders.

The planned reprisals are believed to be linked to sustained offensives conducted by Nigerian military forces in collaboration with the and hybrid security units under Operation FANSAN YANMA, which targeted bandit enclaves in Tsafe Local Government Area and surrounding forest corridors.

The operations reportedly led to the neutralisation of about 65 armed bandits, including high-profile commanders operating under the network of Ado Aliero, a notorious figure linked to years of violent attacks, kidnappings and cattle rustling across Zamfara and neighbouring states.

Among those killed was Kachalla Iliya Sarki, identified as the son of Ado Aliero, alongside other field commanders who were said to play key roles in coordinating armed operations in the region.

Other commanders reportedly eliminated during the offensive included Dogo Sule and Iliya Mai Rasha, as well as additional field leaders who coordinated attacks across Tsafe, Maru and surrounding communities.

The losses are understood to have significantly disrupted the operational structure of the criminal network, even as indications suggest attempts by surviving elements to regroup and launch retaliatory attacks against security formations and nearby communities.

The planned reprisals are also said to involve large-scale movement of armed fighters across forest routes, with motorcycles used for rapid mobilisation and coordination across multiple axes.

The sources said the movement involved suspected bandits operating on over 200 motorcycles, assembling around Unguwar Tsamiya forest axis, with indications that a well-known bandit leader, Bello Turji, had been linked to the planned mobilisation.

Security sources said the sustained operations also dismantled several bandit enclaves in Munhaye and adjoining forest belts, disrupting logistics networks and freeing victims previously held in captivity.

One of the slain commanders, Kachalla Biyabiki, was said to have been holding several abducted victims at the time of the operation, while another leader, Kachalla Dogon Bete, was also neutralised during the engagement.

The development, according to intelligence officials, has significantly weakened the operational structure of Ado Aliero’s network but may also trigger retaliatory violence from surviving fighters seeking revenge.

Security authorities said the latest intelligence pointing to the likelihood of reprisal attacks, particularly against soft targets and isolated rural communities.

They added that surveillance and troop deployments had been intensified across vulnerable locations, with emphasis on forest fringes and highway corridors in Tsafe, Maru, and neighbouring areas.

Authorities also urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements, while assuring that ongoing operations would be sustained to prevent any breakdown of security.

Operation FANSAN YANMA forces, alongside DSS operatives and hybrid units, are continuing clearance operations aimed at dismantling remaining bandit camps and preventing regrouping across the North-West theatre.

By Isa Seidu

The peace move gradually emerging from the heart of Zamfara State between the incumbent Governor of the State, Governor Dauda Lawal, and his predecessor, the present Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Matawalle, is a rare demonstration of His Excellency Dr. Bello Matawalle’s political sagacity, peaceful disposition, and preference for the progress and well-being of the people of Zamfara State. It remains a decisive game changer for national politics while reflecting his loyalty and unreserved commitment to President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the ideals of the Renewed Hope Agenda.

Certainly, Dr. Matawalle has proven through this singular action and his willingness to jettison his gubernatorial ambition for the peace pact that nothing on earth is enough to outweigh his loyalty to President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whom he holds in the highest esteem and regards not only as a political mentor but also as a father figure worthy of any level of sacrifice.

Recently, Dr. Matawalle, in a show of solidarity and party loyalty, and out of his deep and passionate respect for President Asiwaju, decided to enter into a pact with Governor Dauda Lawal and also publicly dropped his 2027 governorship ambition under the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The move underscores Dr. Matawalle’s unflinching loyalty, love and respect for President Asiwaju, his belief in the All Progressives Congress (APC), and his prioritization of the unity and consolidation of the party above every other consideration.

Dr. Matawalle’s willing acceptance also represents his commitment to the stabilization of the party, the state and the nation, as well as a strategic realignment towards harnessing all that is necessary to consolidate the gains of the present administration and ensure its continuity in power both at the state and national levels ahead of the 2027 elections.

Dr. Matawalle has proven that, unlike many other Nigerian politicians, he possesses a rare quality of political maturity, sagacity, selflessness, and party loyalty. In a country where personal political ambition often overrides national priority, national development, political party structural cohesion and loyalty, Dr. Matawalle has proved beyond all reasonable doubt that there still exist a minority of morally strong and selfless individuals who are willing and ready to make necessary sacrifices for the greater good.

While notable figures within and outside Zamfara State, including the Vice President, Alhaji Kashim Shettima, have lauded the sacrifice of the Honourable Minister of State for Defence as rare, it is believed that this singular action will foster unity both in the state and within the APC, as well as improve grassroots mobilization. Dr. Matawalle has redefined the positive trajectory of the nation’s political space and has deepened political discourse, good governance, and the enhancement of tangible, people-based development and progress in a collaborative atmosphere devoid of rancour and egocentrism.

Already, positive feelers from the state indicate a progressively stable political ambience, improved governance and security, and a positive realignment of viable political forces and stakeholders aimed at ensuring positive outcomes that will lead to the landslide victory of the APC in all elections, not just in Zamfara State but across the entire North West regional bloc.

There is certainly no doubt that Alhaji Matawalle considers this success a greater good than his personal political ambition of becoming governor again, and he is determined and convinced to make all necessary sacrifices towards ensuring that this happens.

Moreover, the prioritization of President Asiwaju’s goals and aspirations, coupled with the strength of a united winning party, surely stands Dr. Matawalle as a grand hero of democracy, an exceptional fellow, a rare democrat, a time-tested and faithful party man, and an unwavering disciple of President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who is ready to put everything aside for his success.

This recent unification of purpose remains a redefinition of party loyalty and a clear evidence of the demonstration of sincerity of purpose and commitment, as well as proof of single-mindedness and strong belief in President Asiwaju. Indeed, Dr. Bello Matawalle has remained a consistently faithful party man as well as an ardent disciple of President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

He has remained upbeat and faithful to his conviction of the doctrine of loyalty and selflessness, and a beacon of inspiration to many and a pillar of unbeatable pace for several years of democracy to come.
Dr. Bello Matawalle, through the peace pact, remains an avowal of the cherished spirit of democratic commitment and unwavering faithfulness, further resonating what it means to approach politics selflessly and be willing to make the highest form of sacrifice as a disciple of the political doctrine of selflessness.

Seidu writes from Kaduna

By Musbau Akanji

The year 2027 is at hand, and many are in a frenzy searching for dynamic and authentic leaders to vote for. Nigerians have actually seen and heard it all. They are no longer seeking mere promises and sloganeering, neither are they any longer guided by emotions or sentiments.

Indeed, Nigerians are no longer influenced by bandwagon appeal nor party affiliation. Rather, they are craving that which is tangible — qualities and characters that inspire trust, drive progress, and can make an effective positive impact on their lives and well-being.

To the people of Kwara State, one man that strongly amplifies and resonates these qualities intrinsically, and who has the capacity, competence, and capabilities to lead them and take them forward, is Senator Salihu Mustapha. Senator Salihu is a seasoned technocrat, a tested and proven political leader, and a true man of the people.

His love and kindness resonate with his people, while his personality inspires hope among Kwarans. A dynamic visionary leader, Senator Salihu has over time proven to possess a rare gift of creating strategic plans, a keen understanding of governance, transparency, and people-centric policies.

This is attested to by the quality of his contributions to national debates and his deliberate commitment to the service of his constituents — all qualities that they strongly believe will be used to transform the State into a technological hub, leading to rich investments both in schools and in the startups of creativity. A man of indisputable integrity, Senator Mustapha has shown that he is transparent and accountable to his people and ready at all times to comply with the extant laws of the land.

For instance, he was among the very first to declare his assets.
Known also for his straightforward character, Senator Salihu avoids conflicts of interest and nepotism like a plague. These qualities will effectively lead to inclusivity and the even spread in government appointments.

His strong and effective ability to harness diverse thoughts through regular town hall meetings and periodic engagements with stakeholders and constituents are distinctive attributes that have made him a towering influence not just in Nigeria but a most sought-after candidate for the position of Governor of his home State of Kwara.

A man of soulful empathy, Senator Mustapha is also acknowledged for his deep knowledge of the pain points of his people. He often visits disaster-affected areas, where he provides succour and support to victims.

Indeed, his transparent and problem-solving skills stand him out from others. It is believed that within the period he has been at the National Assembly, Senator Salihu introduced several innovative solutions for infrastructural development of the State and his constituency in particular. Now the people of Kwara want to have first-hand what they were experiencing through a third party.

Modelled after the visionary thinking and empathy of South Africa’s leadership of Nelson Mandela, the people of Kwara are confident that Senator Salihu is sure to transform the State into a model where officials of government will be held responsible for performance, a government that will tackle corruption, and ensure the representation of diverse groups in governance.

A man given to fiscal responsibility and strategic planning, Senator Salihu will prioritise initiatives, innovative solutions, and allocate the resources of the State effectively and prudently, as well as encourage entrepreneurship. In a State with security crises, there is need for a governor equipped to rapidly and effectively respond to daily emergencies and eliminate the challenges.

There is need for a people-centric leader who will focus on improving the quality of lives of the citizens, hold them in high esteem, uphold the rule of law, and respect judicial decisions and pronouncements. The people of Kwara need a strong leader that inspires confidence, motivates teams to achieve goals, builds consensus and coalitions, and engages local leaders and communities to arrest the downward security trend and slide that the State is currently engulfed in. They have seen all these qualities in Senator Mustapha.

Senator Salihu Mustapha stands conspicuously tall as a man with tested and proven economic acumen, who is capable of advancing policies to boost economic growth, social emancipation, and attract fulfilling investments and not mere MoUs. An advocate of social justice and environmental sustainability, Senator Salihu will address the challenges of marginalised groups, ensure the promotion of equality, while promoting sustainable development and conservation.

In the core areas of humanity, Senator Salihu will prioritise education, enhancing access and quality delivery. He will strengthen the healthcare system and improve access to it. He will certainly support farmers more than he is presently doing and develop infrastructure with a view to enhancing connectivity, growth of commerce, and an open competitive market.

To ensure seamless operations, Senator Mustapha is determined to ensure citizens’ safety as he addresses the various security challenges.
Senator Mustapha’s positive phobia for youth and women empowerment is well known. Indeed, he has been severally accused of doing too much for them. To him, he is just beginning.

As governor, Senator Salihu will aggressively empower youths, support entrepreneurship initiatives, and ensure they are prepared for global competitiveness. He will also promote women’s rights and support their inclusion in governance by granting them special seats and representation above the 35 percent Affirmative Action.

A down-to-earth personality, Senator Mustapha has a strong touch with the diverse traditions and culture of the people of Kwara State. He believes in the integration of culture into governance and is therefore committed to preserving the cultural heritage of his people through several areas, including the promotion of tourism, development of sports, and the encouragement of the participation of youth.

A highly technically driven leader, Senator Mustapha will encourage tech innovation and ensure e-governance. Indeed, the days of despair and pains of the people of Kwara State are fast coming to an end, and Kwarans know this.

Hence, they earnestly yearn for Senator Salihu Mustapha, calling on him to come and serve as Governor of Kwara State in 2027.

Akanji writes from Tanke, Ilorin