Insecurity: Radda urges military to swiftly respond to distress calls

Katsina State Governor, Dr Dikko Radda, has appealed to the Nigerian Army authorities to ensure prompt response to distress calls in their areas of operation in the state.

Radda made the appeal Friday evening when the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed A. Lagbaja, visited his office on a courtesy call.

The governor said swift response to distress calls was critical in saving community members during criminal attacks.

He expressed appreciation for the recent visits by both the Chief of Army Staff and the Chief of Defense Staff within one week, stating, “These visits demonstrate the Federal Government’s serious concern about the security situation in our state.”

Radda, who commended the Nigerian Army’s commitment to addressing security challenges, equally highlighted the positive impact of joint security efforts which had greatly addressed insecurity in the state.

“The collaboration of security personnel has led to improved security, allowing more farmers to cultivate their lands this cropping season,” he said.

He, however, called for additional security measures to ensure farmers can safely transport their produce home.

Addressing community response to attacks, Governor Radda mentioned ongoing sensitization efforts and directives to religious leaders to educate the public on the importance of self-defence.

Lagbaja said his visit was part of a tour of military formations to assess operations and civil-military relations, and he expressed confidence that security challenges could be overcome through collaborative efforts.

The Army Chief lauded the efforts of the state governor for his support of military formations and units in the state.

“I have come to thank you for what you’re doing to stamp out insecurity in Katsina. I know that you have established Katsina Community Security Watch, creating an enabling environment to ensure insecurity is stamped out in the state,” he said.

He requested the state government’s assistance in further sensitising citizens about the importance of supporting and cooperating with the military to address security challenges effectively.

The Army Chief also offered condolences to the government and people of the state over the passing of Hajiya Dada, mother of late President Umaru Musa Yar’adua.