Reporter’s Diary: A Journey Through the ‘Heart of Banditry’ in Nigeria

Ever since I began covering defence and security with PRNigeria, a security-focused online news platform, I have developed a deep emotional connection with the Nigerian military, given our country’s lingering security challenges.

From Boko Haram’s insurgency in the Northeast to banditry plaguing the Northwest and Northcentral, kidnappings in the Southwest, IPOB militancy in the Southeast, and oil bunkering in the South-south, the weight of these conflicts pressed heavily.

The true gravity of the situation struck me when I was embedded with a team of journalists on a mission to understand the brutal reality of banditry in Nigeria’s Northwest and witness the operations of our troops on the ground. This wasn’t just about broadening my knowledge; it was about forging a sense of ownership in the fight for peace.

On April 19th, 2024, I received an invitation to join a group of defence correspondents on a tour of Sokoto State, sponsored by the Defence Headquarters. A mix of anticipation and apprehension bubbled within me. The gravity of the situation in this region, ravaged by armed banditry and violence, wasn’t lost on any of us.

We were divided into four teams, each assigned a different military theater of operations, we embarked on our journey. I, along with journalists from various media outlets, joined Team B embedded with Operation Hadarin Daji.

Brigadier General Mohammed Dahiru Abumawashi, the Deputy Director of Defence Media Operations, led our team. The aim was to assess the troops’ performance, gain firsthand experience of their success stories, interact with them, locals, and government officials, and ultimately bridge the gap between the military and the media.

Landing at Sokoto Airport on April 22nd, we were briefed by military officials led by Major General Godwin Mutkut, the General Officer Commanding 8 Division and Commander of Joint Task Force Northwest. His words painted a stark picture of the operational challenges in Sector 3 of Operation Hadarin Daji, particularly along the borders with Zamfara and Niger Republic. The intricate dynamics of the conflict became increasingly apparent.

Through conversations with Major General Mutkut, we gained valuable insights into the military’s strategy. Targeted operations aimed at dismantling bandit enclaves were a priority, but so was minimizing civilian casualties. However, allegations of civilian casualties in recent operations lingered, he highlighted the complexities of counterinsurgency campaigns in densely populated areas.

Following the briefing, we were welcomed by Garrison Commander 8 Division, Brigadier General Alex Tawasimi. From there, we proceeded to Goronyo Local Government Area to interact with troops at the Forward Operation Base (FOB) Goronyo, residents, and some rescued kidnapping victims.

A heavily escorted convoy transported us – one heavy military truck at the front, two Hilux vehicles flanking each side for maximum coverage. Captain Magagi, a man whose gaze spoke volumes of countless patrols, greeted us at Goronyo.

He spoke of “violent extremism” and “banditry,”. Here, banditry wasn’t just a news headline; it was the constant threat of shattered lives, kidnappings, and killings.

Our encounters with victims emphasized the human cost of this crisis. Pastor Sunday Ede, one of the freed victims, narrated the tale of abduction and torture gripping these communities before the troops intervened. Yet, there were also stories of resilience and gratitude for the military, which risked their lives to protect the innocent.

We had an extensive interview session with local government council officials, where the Sole Administrator, Hon. Kabir Shehu Sarkin Fulani, and the Secretary, Alhaji Shehi Isah, provided a comprehensive analysis of security activities. The local administrator spoke of improved security due to cooperation with the military. Captain Magagi, the commander, who championed the several rescue operations was seen as a symbol of hope in the minds of the community.

The council boss, speaking through the secretary, said, “The insecurity in this area…was horrible… Now, because of personnel on ground…the banditry is reducing.” He acknowledged the local government’s contribution to supporting security agencies’ operations.

One particularly impactful encounter was with Ms. Lami Dahiru, a woman just rescued by the military that very day. She recounted the nightmare that when armed assailants raided her community under the cover of darkness. Along with four others, she was snatched from her home. Ms. Dahiru described the terrifying situation. Hope was restored when soldiers pierced the silence.

“We walked through the night without rest, without food or water,” she recalled, her voice trembling. “The next day, the torment continued. They warned us of imminent death…” Just when hope seemed lost, the arrival of the troops was a godsend. ”

Their gunfire shattered the forest’s stillness, scattering the kidnappers. Soldiers pursued the assailants deeper into the woods, while others ushered the terrified villagers to safety. “We were rescued without paying any ransom,” Ms. Dahiru concluded, her eyes filled with gratitude.

The time spent prompted our late return to Sokoto for the night.

The following morning, after breakfast, we embarked on a three-hour journey to Gusau, the capital of Zamfara State. There, Colonel Joseph Umaru, the Chief of Staff of Headquarters, I Brigade, Sector 1 OPHD, welcomed us on behalf of the Commander, Brigadier General Sani Ahmed, who was away on assignment.

Colonel Umaru provided a detailed briefing on their operational activities, successes, and the history of banditry in Zamfara. He addressed concerns about bandit-controlled zones, but emphasized “civilian collaborators” within communities, casting a long shadow.

“We understand the importance of fuel and food to the bandits,” he explained.

“We’ve taken steps to disrupt their supplies, closing markets in remote areas where they sell stolen livestock.” However, the presence of these “loyalists” complicated matters. He recalled an incident where soldiers apprehended two vehicles loaded with soft drinks, a known source of sustenance for bandits.

“The community defended them, claiming they were legitimate businessmen,” Colonel Umaru said. “Without concrete evidence, we had to release them.” He also mentioned restricting fuel sales in certain areas, requiring clearance from military commanders to ensure buyers weren’t bandits or collaborators.

Meanwhile, our journey continued to Kwatarkwashi, a community in Bungudu Local Government Area heavily impacted by banditry. We met with His Royal Highness Abubakar Ahmad Umar, the Emir of Kwatarkwashi, to enlightening us on the issues. He offered insights into the root causes of the conflict, including foreign involvement and the exploitation of mineral resources.

He also highlighted the detrimental influence of politics and informants, while emphasizing the need for a united front against insecurity.

Following this interaction, we witnessed a live demonstration by FOB Sector 1 officers showcasing their combat readiness. Here, we were told about the enemy’s tactics which differed across other regions. While the military adapted its counter-terrorism strategies to secure Nigerian territories, the bandits continuous methods of ambushing the troops is of great concern.

However, a local who confided in us, revealing their hesitation to provide information to the military for fear of retaliation by bandit and their collaborators who come after them after the military raid.

“They [bandits] know everything we do,” admitted an FOB commander. “Their informants are everywhere.”

This underscored the need for more than just military action. The military needed to bolster their non-kinetic approach, building trust and encouraging information sharing. Public awareness campaigns could galvanize support and encourage citizens to report suspicious activity. Additionally, fostering a sense of shared responsibility among the populace could help dismantle bandit support networks. Collaboration between intelligence officers from various security agencies was also crucial for a more comprehensive approach.

As I reflect on this 3-day experience, one thing becomes undeniably clear: defeating banditry in northern Nigeria requires a multifaceted strategy. Military operations alone cannot prevail, but addressing socio-economic inequalities, political divisions, and fostering trust between citizens and security forces are equally critical. Only through a collaborative effort that includes the government, security forces, traditional leaders, and the broader community can lasting peace be achieved.

After leaving Sokoto and Zamfara, I carried a renewed sense of purpose to shed light on the plight of those affected by this crisis and advocate for a holistic approach to restoring peace and security in the region.

Kabir Abdulsalam is a Staff Writer with PRNigeria can be reached via: kbabdulsalam03@gmail.com