The Nigerian Senate has raised the alarm over a worsening security crisis in Katsina State, urging President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to immediately establish a military barracks in the Funtua axis following deadly bandit attacks that claimed no fewer than 35 lives within 24 hours.
Lawmakers expressed deep concern on Wednesday as reports emerged of coordinated assaults across three local government areas in Katsina South, describing the situation as a national emergency that demands swift and decisive federal intervention. The Senate also warned against any form of negotiation with armed groups terrorising rural communities, insisting that sustained military presence remains the most effective response.
The call followed an urgent motion moved under Order 42 by Senator Dandutse Mohammed, who represents Katsina South. The motion, which received overwhelming support, was admitted for debate by Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
While presenting the motion, Senator Dandutse disclosed that Katsina State is once again in mourning after a fresh wave of attacks swept through the Funtua Zone. He revealed that bandits ambushed Mobile Police Force operatives in Guga, Bako Local Government Area, killing three officers and leaving two others critically injured.
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According to the lawmaker, at least 35 people were killed in less than 24 hours across the zone. He said 24 residents were murdered in Faskari Local Government Area, eight in Bakori, two in Funtua Local Government Area, and one in Kankara, underscoring the scale and coordination of the violence.
Dandutse warned that the persistent insecurity has crippled economic activity in the area, with more than 50,000 acres of farmland abandoned as farmers flee their communities. He cautioned that the situation poses a grave threat to food security and agricultural production, not only in Katsina State but across the wider region.
The Senate’s resolution adds pressure on the Tinubu administration to translate security pledges into concrete action, as lawmakers insisted that a permanent military base in Katsina South would help deter banditry, protect rural communities, and restore confidence among residents.
