Security analyst Dr Yahuza Getso has warned that Nigeria faces an escalating security crisis unless authorities take decisive action against bandits following the killing of at least 26 people in Sauna community, Talata Mafara Local Government Area of Zamfara State.
Speaking during an interview with Trust TV on Thursday, Getso said the victims were attacked after residents resisted an attempt by bandits to move stolen cattle through the community.
According to him, the assailants turned on farmers and other residents after they were unable to pass through the area.
“When they carted away those animals, they wanted to cross to Sauna, but it was difficult for them. They tried to enter the Sauna community, but there was resistance. As a result, anybody they found farming, they started killing,” he said.
“Some people had finished farming and were returning with their cows. The bandits took away the cattle and killed the owners. Others were pursued as they fled and were also killed,” Getso said.
The security expert said community leaders had confirmed that 26 people were killed in the attack.
“The total number that has been confirmed is 26. That is the figure from the community leadership,” he stated.
“I have spoken with different members of the community, with almost more than 40 people, including the leadership and the elites. They all affirmed the information,” Getso said.
He alleged that residents had repeatedly alerted security agencies about the presence of a bandit camp near Sauna, particularly during the rainy season, but that no decisive action was taken.
According to him, the reports were made to the Department of State Services (DSS), the police, the Nigerian Army and other security formations operating in the area, as well as the Zamfara State Government.
“They have reported it to the DSS, the police, the army and all the security formations available at the local government level. They also communicated it to senior government officials,” he said.
Getso maintained that the existence of the camp was well known to both residents and security agencies.
The security analyst urged the government to respond swiftly, warning that failure to address the changing tactics of armed groups could worsen the security situation.
“I’m warning the government, Nigerians and myself that we need to face the reality and reorganise ourselves before it is too late,” he said.
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