According to The Nation Newspaper on Sunday - July 7, 2024, the persistent banditry attacks in Katsina have been a source of deep distress for Governor Dikko Umar Radda. Tukur Hassan Tingilin, the General Manager of Katsina State Water Board, revealed that Governor Radda often sheds tears at night when receiving security reports about these attacks.
Tingilin, who is also a member of the sub-committee on the rehabilitation of displaced victims of banditry, highlighted the severe impact of these attacks on villages like Yar-Teba in the Malumfashi local government area. He noted, “Governor Radda is pained by the persistent loss of lives and the disruption of the economic and social lives of the people by bandits and has deployed several efforts both kinetic and non-kinetic measures to fight insecurity at the frontline LGAs and the state at large. He has vowed to terminate terrorist activities in the state within the lifespan of his administration and is ready to deploy all the needed resources and attention at his disposal to that effect.”
In efforts to combat this crisis, the governor has been committed to using all available resources to end the banditry. Sa’idu Ibrahim Danja Kogunan, the Senior Special Assistant on victims of banditry and Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), announced the governor’s plans to restore normalcy and economic activities in affected communities.
The governor's recent visits to these communities, offering condolences to the families of the deceased and support to the injured, form part of this comprehensive plan. Kogunan emphasized the importance of the youth steering clear of criminal activities, warning that the administration would not tolerate such behaviors from both bandits and community members.
Among the villages visited were Yar-Teba, Mai Farin Kai, Gidan Bangaje, and Unguwar Gambo, all in Malumfashi LGAs. These visits saw the participation of local government chairman Maharazzu Adamu Dayi, Tukur Hassan Tingilin, district heads, and local Imams.
In a show of support, over N13 million was distributed to 35 families who lost members to the banditry. This financial assistance is part of the broader efforts by the state government to alleviate the suffering of those affected and help them rebuild their lives.