The Kebbi State Government has strongly rejected allegations that several local communities have been left to the mercy of bandits and terrorists, branding the claims politically motivated falsehoods.
The state administration pushed back on Saturday following criticism from political opponents over its handling of rural security. Like many states across Nigeria’s North-West region, Kebbi faces persistent threats from armed criminal groups.
A recent spate of violent incidents, particularly in vulnerable border areas, has heightened public anxiety and drawn sharp criticism from opposition figures who allege that vulnerable residents have been left defenceless.
In an official statement released by Ahmed Idris, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, state authorities accused political rivals of distorting the reality on the ground for political gain. The administration insisted that Governor Nasir Idris is actively directing counter-insurgency operations alongside federal security agencies and local stakeholders.
“The governor is not standing on the sidelines,” the statement emphasised, adding that he remains “deeply committed to the safety and well-being of the people.”
Addressing concerns over the lack of public announcements regarding anti-banditry operations, the government explained that tactical security measures require strict confidentiality.
“Security matters are highly sensitive, and not every strategy, intelligence-gathering effort, or operational action undertaken by government can or should be discussed publicly,” the Chief Press Secretary stated. “The fact that certain actions are not publicly announced does not mean that nothing is being done.”
The government called on political figures to refrain from exploiting security issues, stressing that “those who seek to reduce the complex security situation in the state to political talking points should exercise greater responsibility.”