Sokoto Residents Take Matters Into Their Own Hands, Storm Forests to Confront Bandits
In a bold move, thousands of residents from Gobir in Sokoto State have taken to the forests to confront bandits and rescue their abducted loved ones. The group, comprising men and women, aims to free 150 kidnapped individuals and recover the body of the slain district head, Isa Mohammad Bawa.
The residents’ decision comes after the continuous failure of security forces to address the banditry and kidnapping in the area. On August 21, 2024, bandits brutally killed the Sarkin Gobir of Gatawa District, Alhaji Isa Muhammad Bawa, after abducting, torturing, and dehumanizing him.
Following the traditional ruler’s murder, bandits attacked Gobir town and abducted over 150 mourners, according to Prof. Bello Bada of the Usman Dan Fodio University Sokoto.
The Nigerian police have denied the kidnapping claims, but the residents are determined to take action.
It’s fight to finish! It’s either us or them (bandits), no going back
In a viral video, the residents can be seen marching into the forest, chanting war songs and invoking Allah’s name. “It’s fight to finish! It’s either us or them (bandits), no going back,” they chanted, showcasing their determination to confront the bandits and rescue their abducted relations.
This development highlights the growing frustration and desperation among communities affected by banditry and kidnapping in Nigeria, as they increasingly take matters into their own hands in the face of perceived government inaction.
Tgnews