Military deploys, kinetic, non-kinetic approaches to fight against insurgency, banditry in Bauchi

By: Monday Danladi, Bauchi

The Military authority has announced the deployment of kinetic and non-kinetic approaches to the fight against insurgency and banditry in ravaged communities of Alkaleri LGA of Bauchi State.

The development was following appeal by the Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, to the Federal Government over the Alkaleri LGA invasion by armed bandits, leading the Military to now take over security operations in the entire areas.

Consequently, the Governor, on Tuesday, received the General Officer Commanding (GOC), 3 Division of the Nigerian Army, Major General Eyitayo Foluso Oyinlola, at the Government House, Bauchi.

The GOC, who is based in Jos, Plateau State, was in Bauchi following directives from the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) to take over military operations in Alkaleri Local Government Area, which recently experienced security breaches.

The visit underscored renewed efforts by the Armed Forces to restore lasting peace in the affected communities.

Major General Eyitayo Foluso Oyinlola, informed the Governor that deployment of Soldiers to Bauchi State was in line with the directives of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), to assume direct supervision of operations in Alkaleri LGA.

He assured that the military would adopt proactive and coordinated strategies to flush out criminal elements and prevent further attacks.

Folusho Oyinlola reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigerian Army to working closely with the state government and other security agencies to secure the affected communities.

The GOC assured the Governor that the Nigerian Army has already deployed both kinetic and non-kinetic strategies to restore normalcy in the affected areas.

He explained that troops have intensified clearance operations, strengthened surveillance across identified flashpoints, and reinforced collaboration with other security agencies to prevent further incursions.

The GOC further stated that intelligence-driven operations are ongoing to dismantle criminal hideouts and disrupt the movement of armed groups within the region.

While noting that additional operational logistics and manpower have been mobilized to ensure sustained security presence in Alkaleri and surrounding communities, Major General Oyinlola emphasized the Army’s commitment to protecting lives and property.

He however appealed for sustained collaboration from local authorities and residents, emphasizing that peace and stability are shared responsibilities.

In his remarks, Bala Mohammed applauded the prompt response of the Presidency and the military high Command, describing the swift intervention as a demonstration of the Federal Government’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property.

He expressed confidence in the capacity of the Nigerian Army to decisively address the emerging security challenges in the area.

The Governor noted that Bauchi State had enjoyed relative peace prior to the recent bandit attacks in Mansur, Digare, Gwana and Yalo communities in Alkaleri Local Government Area.

He lamented that the unfortunate incidents led to displacement and anxiety among residents, stressing that the state government remains resolute in supporting security agencies to restore normalcy.

He urged residents of the affected communities to cooperate fully with security operatives by providing credible information and complying with established security protocols.

According to him, community support remains critical to the success of ongoing military operations expressing appreciation for what he described as the prompt and practical intervention of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, following his earlier engagement in Abuja.

The Governor said he was encouraged by the swift response of the military high command, noting that the Brigade Commander had already briefed him on arrangements to clear the affected areas.

Bala Mohammed commended the Chief of Army Staff, the GOC, and the entire military leadership for their robust response, expressing satisfaction with the ongoing operations.

He also pledged the readiness of the Bauchi State Government to partner with the military through both kinetic and non-kinetic approaches, including community engagement and sociological interventions, to address the root causes of insecurity.

He reaffirmed the commitment of the state, local government authorities, and affected communities to support security agencies in restoring lasting peace across Alkaleri Local Government Area.