By Kayode Sanni-Arewa
Ex- Zamfara State governorship candidate, Dr. Sani Abdullahi Shinkafi, has made serious allegations that prominent politicians are sponsoring banditry in Nigeria’s North-West region.
This declaration was made against the backdrop of escalating insecurity, characterized by numerous attacks and kidnappings across the area.
In a statement released on Saturday, Shinkafi claimed that certain influential politicians are covertly supporting the bandits, thereby undermining ongoing efforts to restore peace in the region.
As the Executive Director of Patriots for the Advancement of Peace and Social Development (PAPSD), Shinkafi voiced support for the Defence Headquarters’ investigation into the funding of banditry in the North-West.
He condemned the actions of unscrupulous politicians who exploit banditry for their selfish interests and called for a thorough investigation into individuals politicizing insecurity for personal gain.
Shinkafi lauded the Defence Headquarters’ investigation as a crucial step toward addressing the crisis, praising President Bola Tinubu’s directive that has reportedly led to the elimination of notorious bandits.
He highlighted military successes in neutralizing key bandit leaders, including Kachalla Halilu Sububu, Jamilu Nazakiru, Sani Black, Danbaleri Mashekari, and Wala Baburki.
He stated, “This is a welcome development and long overdue in the quest for sustainable peace, security, and development in the region.
“The spate of killings, kidnappings for ransom, destruction of property, imposition of levies and taxes, and displacement of people from their communities by these criminal elements is alarming. It calls for a concerted military effort to crush them and restore national security.
“Anyone found culpable in the probe should face the full weight of the law, regardless of their status or position in the country.
“Some unscrupulous politicians have been using banditry as a campaign tool against their opponents for selfish political motives. The Defence Headquarters should also investigate those exploiting the lives and property of innocent people for political gain.
“Other public office holders similarly use the security challenges as conduits to divert and siphon public funds for personal enrichment.”
Shinkafi also defended Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Matawalle, against blackmail allegations, citing his excellent performance in President Tinubu’s cabinet.