‘Bandits getting support from people in power’ — Ex-NYSC DG alleges

Former National Youth Service Corps Director‑General Brig‑General Maharazu Tsiga, retired, claims that bandits terrorizing communities may be receiving support from powerful government officials and other authorities.

He delivered the remarks at a press conference in Kaduna, where he also discussed the death of late Major‑General Rabe Abubakar, retired, who was killed while in bandit captivity in Katsina State.

Tsiga, who himself was kidnapped earlier this year from his hometown in Katsina, recounted a harrowing experience while held captive by the bandits.

“These people may have the backing of those in power,” Tsiga said. “I heard someone call their leader at 2 a.m and say, ‘Please, Kachala, are you ready to buy 10 cartons of ammunition?’ I jokingly asked him to involve me in this business once he finished the call, but he asked who I was. He replied, ‘You are a retired general. You don’t have an office. We are talking to people who are in office now.’”