8 Div GOC vows to keep bandits out of Sokoto communities

From Shafa’atu Suleiman, Sokoto

The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division of the Nigerian Army and Commander, Sector 2 Joint Task Force (North West), Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Major General Bemgba Paul Koughna, has vowed that bandits will not be allowed to gain control of communities in Sokoto State.

Major General Koughna stated this during an assessment visit to Tidibale community in Isa Local Government Area of the state, where residents were seen in a viral video fleeing their homes.

The visit was part of his first official engagements since assuming command, following the recent return of residents who had earlier fled Tidibale due to threats from bandits.

Addressing community members, the GOC reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to protecting lives and property, assuring residents that normalcy would be fully restored.

He said troops had been deployed and were now stationed in the community to maintain a strong and sustained security presence.

According to him, the soldiers remain on high alert and are prepared to respond swiftly to any security threat, stressing that no part of Tidibale would be left under the control of criminal elements.

He added that the renewed security measures would allow residents to go about their daily activities, particularly farming, without fear.

The GOC called on residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies by promptly reporting any suspicious movements or activities, noting that community support remains critical to winning the fight against banditry.

Speaking on behalf of the community, the Sarkin Arewa of Tidibale, Alhaji Ibrahim, expressed appreciation to the Army chief for the visit, describing it as timely and reassuring.

He said the presence of troops had restored hope among residents and strengthened their confidence to return to their homes and livelihoods.

Earlier, Major General Koughna received a comprehensive operational briefing from the Commanding Officer, 26 Battalion, Lieutenant Colonel Nasiru Mustapha, at the Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Isa. The briefing highlighted the prevailing security situation and ongoing military operations in the area.

The Nigerian Army reiterated its resolve to continue working closely with local communities and other stakeholders to ensure lasting peace and security across Sokoto State and the wider North West region.