Renewed violence across parts of Northern Nigeria has intensified fears among residents, even as public debate grows over the expected impact of recent United States military support to the country.
In Zamfara State, residents of Dan Jibga and Keta communities in Tsafe Local Government Area say their towns remain under siege by armed bandits who have allegedly blocked security operatives from accessing the area.
Sources told DAILY POST that an attempt by security personnel to enter the affected communities last week ended in tragedy. A bomb reportedly detonated along the route between Keta and Dan Jibga, killing some operatives and injuring others, forcing the mission to retreat.
The incident has heightened anxiety among villagers, many of whom say they are unable to move freely as tension persists.
Violence has also escalated in Plateau State, particularly in Barkin Ladi and Riyom local government areas, where at least 12 people were reportedly killed in separate attacks by armed assailants. The killings have triggered fresh displacement, with families fleeing to neighboring communities in search of safety.
In a related development, suspected Berom militia members allegedly carried out a reprisal attack along the Pankshin road, killing four Muslim travelers on their way to a local market. The incident has further inflamed tensions in the state, which has experienced recurring cycles of communal violence over the years.
Security concerns are equally mounting in Kebbi State, where bandits operating in the southern axis reportedly demanded N100 million from residents of Utouno in Ngaski Local Government Area, threatening to launch attacks if the demand is not met. The ultimatum has reportedly forced several families to flee to nearby villages.
Amid the worsening insecurity, the recent arrival of United States personnel to support Nigeria’s security operations has generated mixed reactions. While some Nigerians hope for swift results, security experts caution against expecting immediate impact.
In an exclusive interview with DAILY POST, retired military officer and security analyst, Major Muhammad Bashir Galma (Rtd), described expectations of instant improvement as unrealistic.
“You cannot expect to see the impact of their arrival immediately. They are here primarily for training. Training involves equipping our personnel with skills, strategies, and possibly technical equipment. These are processes that take time before their effects can be felt,” Galma said.
He emphasized that even if new tactical knowledge or equipment is introduced, it could take months before measurable improvements are evident.
“They are not here to enter unfamiliar forests and begin direct combat operations. Their mandate is capacity building, not frontline engagement,” he added.
Galma further noted that political interference and vested interests benefiting from prolonged instability could undermine progress in addressing insecurity.
“Whenever there is interference, especially from political actors or individuals who profit from instability, it complicates the fight. Many people understand what is happening, even if it is not openly discussed,” he stated.
On allegations of ransom payments during certain rescue operations, the retired officer urged caution, describing such claims as unverified and warning against drawing conclusions without credible evidence.
As violence continues across affected states, residents are calling for urgent and sustainable solutions to restore peace. While international collaboration may bolster Nigeria’s security framework over time, communities grappling with daily threats insist that their most immediate concern remains survival.
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