Ex-Katsina SSG Decries Continuous Killings, Abductions by Bandits

Francis Sardauna in Katsina

Former Secretary to the Katsina State Government (SSG), Dr. Mustapha Mohammed Inuwa, voiced alarm over what he described as worsening security challenges in several communities across the state.

The former APC stalwart alleged that killings, abductions and other violent attacks by bandits have “continued unabated” in villages and towns throughout Katsina.

Speaking at a stakeholders’ meeting of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Katsina on Saturday, Inuwa accused authorities of ignoring the reality of the security crisis facing residents.

He said that bandit attacks have become a daily occurrence in many parts of the state, resulting in loss of life, kidnappings and severe hardship for affected communities.

Inuwa, a senior ADC member, stated: “No day passes in Katsina without bandits abducting, killing or raping women in the state. Women are being raped in the presence of their husbands by the bandits.”

“But those in authority to tackle the security challenges are even pretending that there is nothing of such happening in the state. This is painful and disheartening,” he added.

The former SSG lamented the disconnect between official statements and the lived experiences of residents in insecure areas.

He urged the state and federal governments, along with other relevant authorities, to acknowledge the security challenges and take proactive measures to end the violence, thereby protecting lives and property.

Inuwa warned that failure to recognize the scale of the crisis could undermine efforts to restore peace and security in the state.

While praying for the repose of those killed by bandits and the safe return of those in captivity, he said: “What those in authority are saying is different from what is happening in the state. Since they are claiming that nothing is happening in the state, they will not take action to end the problem. We will continue to pray for God to bring this devastating security challenge to an end.”

Katsina, like other states in the north‑west region, has experienced repeated attacks by bandits and other criminal elements in recent years.

These assaults have caused deaths, kidnappings, property destruction and displacement of residents in affected communities.

Although security agencies continue operations to curb the marauders’ activities, concerns remain over the frequency of attacks and their impact on local populations.