Governor Atiku Bagudu of Kebbi has told Nigerians to stop being apprehensive of bandits, saying the criminals are “a negligible few.”

On Sunday, he also revealed that President Muhammadu Buhari had mandated seven North-West governors, including himself, to end banditry in the region.

Mr Bagudu, the APC Governors’ Forum chairman, stated this at a Fulani Stakeholders’ Peace, Security and Unity Meeting held in Birnin-Kebbi.

The governor said the president’s directive was to ensure the urgent restoration of normalcy in the region.

He stated that the president was fully committed to adequately protecting the lives and property of all law-abiding and peaceful citizens.

Mr Bagudu acknowledged the efforts of the military and other security agencies in tackling the nation’s security challenges.

He appealed to Nigerians to be less apprehensive in confronting the enemies of peace and unity, saying, “They are a negligible few, and we should all brace the odds.

“The issue of ensuring security in the nation is a collective responsibility, and as such, all hands must be on deck in this direction.“

Mr Bagudu also reiterated his earlier pledge to lead the rescue efforts of the abducted students and staff of the Federal Government College Birnin Yauri.

On June 17, bandits invaded the college, abducting some teachers and several students.

However, a military team has so far rescued about 11 of the abductees.

The governor said, “We were not elected only to stay in the office, but to do anything to safeguard the lives and property of all law-abiding citizens. We have to do everything to guarantee peace, unity, and security even to the extent of sacrificing our lives as ordained by religious scriptures.”

According to Mr Bagudu, the Fulani stakeholders meeting was called to review the progress made in tackling the challenges to proffer plausible solutions.

He said his government had set up a steering committee to look into grazing reserves, cattle routes and resolve lingering contentious issues between farmers and herders as a path to achieving lasting peace and security in the state.

“Government is fully aware of issues raised, just as it has already started implementing some of the recommendations raised by the committee.

“No matter the efforts put in by the government, there has to be the understanding and acceptance of those concerned to have a positive effect on their lives,” he said.

(NAN)