The Kauru Local Government Area (LGA) in Kaduna State, Nigeria, is grappling with a severe security crisis, characterized by relentless bandit attacks that have displaced over 500 households. Abel Adamu, Chairman of the LGA’s Community Development Associations (CDAs), painted a grim picture of the situation, highlighting the loss of life, displacement, and widespread destruction of property. The frequency of abductions has also reached alarming levels, instilling fear and disrupting daily life. A recent tragic incident underscored the gravity of the situation: a woman was killed by her abductors even after the ransom demand was met. The escalating violence has disrupted the local economy, particularly impacting farming activities, a mainstay of the region. Adamu’s plea for urgent government intervention reflects the community’s desperation for safety and security.
The recent attacks in Kumana and Kauru chiefdoms have displaced thousands of residents and visitors, compounding the existing humanitarian crisis. Several communities, including Dokan Karji, Bandi, Rumaya, Kwassam, Kaibi, Kusheka, Geshere, and Binawa, are bearing the brunt of the violence, forcing residents to live in constant fear. While acknowledging the community’s efforts to address the security challenges through initiatives like neighborhood watch programs and community policing, Adamu emphasized that the situation has deteriorated beyond their capacity to manage. He stressed the need for immediate intervention from security agencies and the international community.
The CDA chairman proposed the establishment of two military bases, one each in Kauru and Kumana chiefdoms, to provide a permanent security presence and deter further attacks. This request comes in addition to an existing military base in Chawai chiefdom, which, although appreciated, requires additional personnel to effectively address the sporadic attacks still occurring within its jurisdiction. Adamu emphasized the community’s willingness to cooperate with the government in its efforts to restore peace and security to the region. He expressed gratitude to the Kaduna State Governor for the ongoing construction of the Pambegua to Kauru Road, a crucial infrastructure project that has been long overdue.
The lack of accessible roads in the LGA, comprised of Kauru, Kumana, and Chawai Chiefdoms, has historically hindered development and hampered security responses. For over three decades, residents of Chawai have endured arduous journeys of hundreds of kilometers, detouring through Saminaka in Lere LGA and Pambegua in Kubau LGA, due to the absence of direct routes. This lack of infrastructure has significantly delayed the response time of security forces, particularly the Operation Safe Haven operatives based in Kafanchan, who face travel times of up to nine or ten hours to reach affected areas within Kauru LGA.
To further enhance accessibility and security, Adamu advocated for the extension of the Pambegua-Kauru Road to Kwassam, Geshere, and Mariri, connecting communities across the three chiefdoms. This extension would not only improve economic prospects by facilitating trade and movement but also bolster security by enabling quicker access for security personnel and emergency services. Improved infrastructure is seen as vital for both development and security in the region.
Adamu commended the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, for facilitating the establishment of a military barrack in Southern Kaduna, a project expected to significantly address the myriad security challenges plaguing the region. He also expressed gratitude to the chairman of Kauru LGA, Alhaji Bashir Tanko Dawaki, and the area’s representatives at the national and state assemblies – Senator Sunday Marshall Katung, Hon. Mukhtar Zakari Chawai, and Hon. Barnabas Haruna Danmaigona – for their continuous efforts to ensure the safety and security of the people. These collaborative efforts between community leaders, government officials, and security forces are crucial for addressing the complex security situation and restoring peace to the troubled region. The ongoing construction of roads and the establishment of military bases offer hope for improved security and a return to normalcy for the beleaguered communities of Kauru LGA.
