Ganduje Calls for Offensive Approach in Battle Against Banditry, Urges Military to Take Over Forests

The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Abdullahi Ganduje, has called for a shift from a defensive to an offensive approach in the fight against banditry and insurgency in Nigeria.

Ganduje made this call during a condolence visit to Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago, following the tragic tanker explosion incident at Dikko Junction in Suleja. In his remarks, Ganduje emphasized the need for the military to take control of forests in the northern region to effectively subdue bandits.

In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Edwin Olofu, Ganduje praised Governor Bago’s efforts in ensuring the security of Niger State, while noting that the state is home to Nigeria’s largest landmass and the highest number of forests.

“The solution to this menace is to conquer the forest,” Ganduje said, referring to the bandits who are said to operate from these forested areas. “The bandits are in the forest; why have we been on the defensive instead of being on the offensive?”

Drawing from his experience as the former Governor of Kano State, Ganduje recalled his request to the Federal Government for the military to take over the Falgore Forest, which led to the establishment of a military training ground in the area. This action, he noted, resulted in the expulsion of bandits from the region and helped restore peace to Kano.

Ganduje’s comments highlight his belief that a more aggressive military strategy is necessary to confront the growing insecurity in northern Nigeria.