“We Won’t Pay, We’ll Fight” — Niger Governor Bago Declares Total War on Bandits

Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago has vowed never to negotiate with bandits or pay ransom for abducted victims, declaring that the era of appeasing criminals in the state is over.

Bago made the declaration during a condolence visit to the people of Rijau and Magama local government areas, where several communities were recently attacked by bandits in Kontagora.

The governor urged residents to rise and defend themselves, insisting that paying ransom only fuels further kidnappings and deepens insecurity.

“The state has reached a point where the people must stand up and defend themselves. I will not negotiate with bandits. I will not pay ransom. The moment we start paying, they will open shop on our heads and keep kidnapping people,” Bago warned.

He stressed that the Constitution empowers citizens to protect their lives and property, assuring that his administration will take every necessary step to ensure their safety.

“We are surrounded by enemies, but we will not give up. The Constitution gives us the right to defend our lives and property, and we will do just that. There is no going back,” he affirmed.

Describing the situation as a “state of war,” the governor condemned the frequent attacks that have displaced residents, calling them embarrassing and unacceptable.

To strengthen security across the state, Bago announced plans to recruit and train 10,000 members into a joint task force. He also imposed a total ban on mining activities in Zone C, blaming illegal mining for escalating insecurity in the region.

Bago further pledged government support for victims of the recent attacks, including compensation for bereaved families, medical care for the injured, and aid for those who lost their means of livelihood.