By By Elizabeth Ugbo
Governor Meets Tinubu Over Escalating Attacks
Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, on Friday met President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja to seek urgent federal intervention over renewed bandit attacks in Alkaleri Local Government Area, warning that armed groups have taken over ungoverned spaces and the crisis could trigger a humanitarian emergency.
Mohammed said insecurity in Alkaleri has worsened beyond the state’s control. He explained that bandits now operate freely from the Daji Dam axis.
According to him, security forces have engaged the criminals in several clashes. However, he noted that the attacks continue to escalate.
“We have been having sporadic clashes with them alongside security agencies, but the situation is overwhelming,” he said.
He warned that the crisis could spiral into a humanitarian disaster if authorities fail to act swiftly.
Residents Flee as Fear Spreads
The governor disclosed that fear has forced many residents to flee to neighbouring states and local governments.
He stressed that the movement has intensified during the Ramadan fasting period.
“Out of fear and paranoia, most inhabitants are running to other states,” he said.
Mohammed added that he personally visited the affected communities with heads of security agencies. He then compiled a detailed report and presented it to the President.
Tinubu Orders Military Operations
Mohammed said President Tinubu responded positively and issued directives to security agencies.
In recent weeks, the President intensified military operations across the North-West and North-Central regions. These operations cover Kwara, Niger, Kaduna and Zamfara states.
The governor confirmed that federal forces have already begun actions in areas facing similar threats.
He also revealed plans to convene a joint security summit. The summit will involve governors from Taraba, Plateau and Gombe states. Security agencies will support the initiative.
According to him, the meeting will address insecurity across forest corridors and border communities.
No Defection Plans, Says Mohammed
Meanwhile, Mohammed dismissed speculation about defecting from the opposition party.
He insisted he remains a committed member of the Peoples Democratic Party.
“I have always said that I am a PDP man,” he stated.
He explained that his visit focused strictly on governance and partnership.
“This is time for governance. I came to seek support, and he responded positively,” he added.
Mohammed also rejected claims that he feels isolated as a PDP governor. He cited the party’s performance in the recent FCT Area Council elections as proof of its strength.
“Elections are won at the polling units. They are won locally, not nationally,” he said.
He further described the PDP as a party with deep grassroots presence across Nigeria.
Call for State Police
President Tinubu has urged the National Assembly to consider constitutional amendments for the creation of state police.
The proposal forms part of broader efforts to address Nigeria’s worsening insecurity.
Mohammed expressed support for stronger collaboration between federal and state authorities. He said only coordinated action can restore peace in affected communities.
