Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State visited displaced persons from Futuk, Mansur, Gwana, and other affected communities in Kashere, Akko Local Government Area of Gombe State, following recent bandit attacks that displaced more than 100,000 residents. The affected residents are currently taking refuge at Kashere Central Primary School, where they are being sheltered through the combined efforts of community groups and the leadership of Akko Local Government Council.

Assessing the Crisis on the Ground

Addressing the displaced persons at the Akko Central Primary School, Governor Bala Mohammed said he was in Kashere to personally commiserate with the victims and assess the situation on the ground. He revealed that over 10,000 heavily armed bandits were reported to have invaded several communities including Mansur, Digare, Yelwan Fatuk, and Gwana, in Alkaleri local government area. The attacks overwhelmed local vigilantes and security operatives, leading to the displacement of more than 100,000 residents.

The Governor raised concerns over what he described as an ‘ungoverned space’ around Dajin Madam forest, alleging that bandits fleeing military operations in the North-West have regrouped in the area and are recruiting both outsiders and locals, including some formerly involved in illegal mining activities. He noted that police drones had helped in repelling some of the attackers but stressed that more coordinated efforts were urgently needed.

Call for Federal Intervention

Governor Bala Mohammed disclosed that he would meet President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to seek stronger military support, additional arms for security agencies, and proper training for vigilantes and forest guards. He emphasized that while governors are regarded as chief security officers of their states, they lack direct control over security apparatus and weapon deployment.

The Governor further announced plans for a joint security summit involving the governors of Gombe, Bauchi, Taraba, and Benue States to develop a coordinated strategy to flush out bandits and reclaim affected territories. According to him, a decisive and unified onslaught is necessary to permanently address the growing insecurity in the region.

The Governor assured the displaced communities that efforts were underway to clear the bandits and facilitate their safe return, stressing that communities must also work closely with security agencies to defend their territories. He commended the people of Kashere for accommodating the victims ‘not as IDPs, but as brothers and sisters,’ despite the disruption to academic activities at the primary school.

Local and Traditional Leadership Response

The Chairman of Akko Local Government Area, Hon. Danladi Adamu Akko, briefed the Governor on measures taken to provide shelter, food, and basic assistance to the displaced persons. In his remarks, the Emir of Pindiga, Muhammad Seyoji Ahmad, pledged continued support and cooperation from traditional institutions in ensuring peace and stability.

The visit highlights growing calls for intensified federal intervention as North-East states confront increasing spillover of banditry from other parts of the country. The crisis has not only displaced thousands but also disrupted local economies and education systems, as seen in Kashere, where the primary school is being used as a temporary shelter for displaced families.

According to reports, the number of displaced people has been rising since the start of the year, with over 100,000 now living in temporary shelters. Security analysts have warned that without a coordinated regional response, the situation could deteriorate further. The Governor’s call for a unified security strategy reflects the urgency of the matter, as local security forces continue to struggle against well-armed and organized bandit groups.

As the federal government prepares for a potential meeting with state governors, the focus remains on strengthening local security infrastructure and improving inter-agency coordination. The upcoming joint security summit is expected to bring together key stakeholders to address the root causes of banditry and implement long-term solutions.