The Minister of State for Defense, Hon. Bello Mohammed Matawalle, has categorically denied the presence of Lakurawa militants in Nigeria's Northwest zone.
Speaking to journalists at his residence in Gusau on December 23, Matawalle, who is also the former Governor of Zamfara State, emphasized the success of military operations in dismantling terrorist groups and recovering arms.
"There is no presence of Lakurawa militants in the Northwest zone," declared Matawalle. He further explained that these criminal elements are not Nigerians but rather foreign nationals from Burkina Faso and Mali, intent on causing disruption within the region.
The minister criticized the spread of misinformation by some journalists and social media operators, accusing them of instilling fear among citizens and attempting to tarnish the image of the Federal Government and security agencies.
"Anybody talking about Lakurawa militants is doing so to tarnish the image of the Federal Government and security agencies," he lamented.
Matawalle reassured the public of the government's commitment to eradicating banditry, stating, "The Tinubu administration is very much ready to wipe out all the bandits in the Northwest zone before the end of 2025."
He highlighted ongoing military efforts, noting that troops are actively neutralizing bandit kingpins and their foot soldiers daily.
The minister urged Nigerians to disregard false information propagated by what he described as "enemies of peace and progress." He reiterated the administration's focus on ensuring the security of lives and property, asserting, "Security of lives and property of the citizens is the main thrust of Tinubu’s administration, and we adhere to that policy."
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