Hope for Kachia: Sani approves military base to tackle banditry

Long-suffering residents of Barga in Awon ward, Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State, have received news that promises potential relief from the relentless banditry that has plagued their community. Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani has approved the establishment of a Military Forward Operations Base (FOB) in the area, strategically located near the notorious Rijana forest, a known stronghold for criminal elements.

The announcement of the FOB has been met with optimism by community leaders and residents alike.

During a recent tour of the project site by All Progressives Congress (APC) stakeholders in Kachia, Zanko Adamu, a prominent community leader, voiced the collective hope of the people. “This base will significantly reduce the frequency of bandit attacks,” he stated.

He recounted the devastating impact of persistent kidnappings and cattle rustling, which had forced many residents to abandon their homes and fertile farmlands in search of safety.

Mark Bawa, a resident of Barga, lauded Governor Uba Sani for his prompt action in response to the community’s desperate pleas for security. “This development has truly rekindled our hope,” he expressed.

He detailed how the incessant attacks had severely impoverished the once-thriving farming community, leading to a drastic reduction in agricultural output and widespread food shortages. “Our community was once a beacon of peace and productivity until these ruthless criminals began wreaking havoc on our lives and livelihoods,” Bawa lamented, adding a heartfelt prayer for the end of their ongoing “nightmare.”

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Hannatu Dikko, another resident of Barga, highlighted the far-reaching socio-economic consequences of the banditry. “Businesses have been forced to shut down completely, and our schools remain closed, leaving our children without access to essential education,” she explained, underscoring the multifaceted devastation inflicted upon the community.

Dr. Manzo Maigari, the Chairman of Kachia Local Government Area, emphasized that the establishment of the Military Forward Operations Base aligns perfectly with the Kaduna State government’s ongoing drive to enhance rural infrastructure and security. “Once fully completed and operational, this FOB will significantly enhance the capacity of our military to provide swift and effective responses to security threats and to conduct crucial surveillance operations in the affected areas,” Dr. Maigari stated.

He further urged all residents to actively participate in the collective security effort by sharing any relevant local intelligence with the security agencies, stressing that ensuring the safety and well-being of the community is a shared responsibility.