Eko Hot Blog reports that Katsina State Governor, Dikko Radda, issued a stern warning on Friday, expressing concerns that the escalating hunger crisis in the country could exacerbate the existing security challenges.
Governor Radda disclosed that he was among those targeted for attacks by bandits, highlighting the urgent need to address the pressing issues at hand.
The governor convened an expanded emergency meeting of the State Security Council, attended by key stakeholders, including members of the State Executive Council, the Commissioner for Justice, and prominent traditional leaders such as the Emirs of Katsina and Daura.
Heads of various security agencies in the state were also present at the meeting.
Addressing the gathering, Governor Radda emphasized the necessity of discussing the current hardship faced by Nigerians, particularly the soaring prices of foodstuffs.
He raised concerns about the activities of some traders exporting food items to neighboring countries, including Niger, Chad, and Libya, due to the weakened value of the Naira.
Governor Radda expressed his worry about the potential consequences of escalating food prices on the population, stating, “If care is not taken, hunger will enter into people, which will, in effect, bring about crisis and insecurity in the country.”
He cited instances of protests in Niger and Kano states related to the high cost of food, emphasizing the need to prevent such situations in Katsina.
The governor revealed that trailers loaded with foodstuffs were being held until prices increased before being sold, creating a challenging situation for the populace.
In addition to the economic challenges, Governor Radda addressed the evolving strategies of bandits, noting that their informants supplying intelligence had become elusive.
He mentioned that bandits were now resorting to abducting vulnerable individuals, who lacked the assurance of regular meals, to sabotage government efforts.
Despite being personally targeted by bandits, Governor Radda affirmed his commitment to addressing the issues at hand.
He urged people to organize themselves for self-defense against bandit attacks, stating, “These problems will finish us if we don’t take them seriously. We encourage people to organize themselves and defend themselves against the bandits.”
As Katsina grapples with the complex interplay of economic challenges and security threats, Governor Radda’s call for collective action underscores the urgent need for comprehensive solutions to safeguard the well-being of the state’s residents.
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