Four reportedly killed as bandits, vigilantes clash in Plateau community

Minister canvasses secured borders as senator seeks arming of Nigerians

No fewer than four persons were reportedly killed in a clash between bandits and vigilantes at Dogon Ruwa community in Bashar District of Wase Local Council of Plateau State on Wednesday night

Wase villages have witnessed a series of banditry attacks over the past two years, resulting in numerous killings and kidnappings. Hundreds of cattle have also been rustled by the hoodlums.

A vigilante and youth leader, Abdullahi Shu’aibu, confirmed the incident yesterday.

He said: “The bandits arrived at the community intending to kidnap residents. They parked their motorcycles near the village, but we had received information about their plans.

“The bandits entered houses, selecting individuals for kidnapping, unaware that vigilantes were lying in wait near the motorcycles. As they attempted to escape with the abductees, vigilantes engaged them, killing three bandits. Unfortunately, one vigilante was also killed.”

The vigilante further revealed that hundreds of residents from various communities have fled to Wase town due to incessant attacks and cattle rustling.

Shu’aibu, who is currently in Wase town, confirmed to The Guardian that herders continue to arrive with their cattle in the town and neighbouring settlements seeking refuge.

He added: “Some fleeing residents are currently in Wase, while others have relocated to other places due to fear of the unknown.”

Spokesperson for the state police command, DSP Alabo Alfred, did not respond to inquiries about the development.

BESIDES, the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has said the country can only be productive if its borders are secure from external intruders.

He pointed out that once there are no protective borders, there cannot be productivity, as productivity is a function of internal security.

The minister spoke yesterday in Jos at the yearly Nigeria Immigration Service Comptroller General Conference.

Tunji-Ojo observed that Immigration’s role could not be relegated to the background, charging the agency to be proactive in all its activities.

On her part, the Comptroller General of Immigration, Mrs Kemi Nana Nandap, said that the theme of the conference was very apt as it borders on “Enhancing Border Security and Migration Management in a Globalised World Challenges and Opportunities for Nigeria.”

She disclosed that Nigeria has over 4000 kilometres with neighbouring counties.

Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang, represented by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Samuel Jatau, lauded the participants and management.

MEANWHILE, the lawmaker representing Delta North Senatorial District, Ned Nwoko, has defended the rationale behind his proposal for a bill that would permit civilians to own and carry firearms.

He reiterated his position on a live programme.

Nwoko stated that allowing Nigerians to bear arms would help address the country’s insecurity challenges, enabling citizens to defend themselves effectively.

When asked if carrying guns would solve the nation’s security problems, the lawmaker said: “Yes, it will.”

He also narrated how his Senior Legislative Aide was killed last November when gunmen attacked his home in Abuja.

However, Nwoko emphasised that his proposal includes strict regulations.