In response to the escalating security situation in Niger State, Governor Umaru Bago has announced a dusk-to-dawn curfew in Minna, the state capital, as part of efforts to tackle the increasing wave of violent crimes that have plagued the region. The decision follows a series of disturbing criminal activities in the area, including stabbings, and an alarming rise in the use of motorcycles and tricycles by criminals to carry out their attacks. The curfew, which is expected to be strictly enforced, may also be extended to other local government areas within the state if the security situation worsens.
Governor Bago, in his address at a high-level security meeting with traditional leaders and security agencies, expressed his deep concern over the recent surge in criminal activities. He emphasized that the curfew was necessary to restore law and order, assuring residents that his administration would take decisive steps to rid the state of criminals. One of the key components of the plan is a comprehensive operation that will involve the governor personally leading efforts across Minna to flush out criminal elements hiding within the city. He also stated that security forces would carry out rigorous checks to ensure proper documentation of all residents, with an explicit warning that any houses found harboring criminals would face demolition. This firm stance aims to send a clear message to anyone involved in unlawful activities that there would be zero tolerance for such behavior.
The move to impose a curfew comes amid a broader climate of insecurity affecting several parts of Nigeria, with Niger State facing similar challenges to its neighboring regions. In particular, the state has witnessed a troubling rise in criminal incidents, which have led to widespread fear and unrest among residents. The situation has drawn attention to the growing security concerns across the country, especially in rural areas where traditional law enforcement structures are often overwhelmed by the scale and complexity of the threats posed by armed groups and criminal syndicates.
The insecurity in Niger mirrors the troubling developments in neighboring states, such as Benue, where 11 people were tragically killed in an attack attributed to suspected herders. These violent incidents have highlighted the vulnerability of communities in the north-central region, where widespread attacks by armed groups have displaced many people and disrupted everyday life. The worsening situation in states like Niger and Benue has led to increasing calls for the government to take more decisive actions to curb the tide of violence.
Governor Bago’s decision to implement a curfew is just one of many steps being considered to address these pressing security challenges. He has also called on the federal government to provide more support to state security agencies, as well as for greater collaboration between traditional leaders, community organizations, and law enforcement agencies. These efforts are seen as vital in efforts to stem the tide of violence and restore public trust in the ability of government institutions to ensure safety.
At the same time, the security situation in Niger State has sparked a broader debate about the effectiveness of the current security architecture in Nigeria. In Plateau State, for example, the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has called on the federal government to grant states the authority to create their own police forces. This call comes in the wake of recent killings in the region, including attacks by armed herders, and is based on the argument that localized law enforcement agencies could better respond to the unique security challenges faced by individual states. The NBA’s stance echoes the growing frustration of many Nigerians who feel that the federal government’s approach to managing security has been inadequate in the face of mounting violence.
The widespread criticism of the federal government’s handling of security matters was further amplified by the tragic events in Benue, where the loss of life has sparked outrage and calls for greater accountability. Political figures like Prince Adewole Adebayo of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) have been vocal in their condemnation of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, accusing the government of failing to take proactive steps to prevent these senseless killings. For many Nigerians, the ongoing violence represents a failure of leadership at both the state and federal levels, and calls for urgent reform have become more urgent than ever.
As the people of Niger State face increasing threats to their safety, Governor Bago’s move to impose a curfew represents a significant escalation in efforts to restore order. The curfew is not only a reflection of the immediate need to address security concerns, but also a statement of intent from the state government that it will take a hardline approach to criminal activities. However, the success of these measures will depend on the cooperation of local communities, the effectiveness of security operations, and the willingness of the federal government to provide the necessary support to ensure lasting peace in the region. The challenges ahead are daunting, but Governor Bago’s bold decision signals a commitment to confronting these challenges head-on.
Comments