Banditry: Funtua needs urgent assistance
For nearly a decade, Funtua has been one of the towns most affected by insecurity in the North West. Recently, we are facing the resurgence of banditry and insecurity in our communities in unprecedented forms. Sometimes it happens in broad daylight and they came in large numbers, with heavy arms. The threat of banditry has […]
For nearly a decade, Funtua has been one of the towns most affected by insecurity in the North West.
Recently, we are facing the resurgence of banditry and insecurity in our communities in unprecedented forms. Sometimes it happens in broad daylight and they came in large numbers, with heavy arms.
The threat of banditry has turned countless households into victims either directly through attacks or indirectly through displacement, trauma, and loss. Today, the situation has deteriorated to the point where it is difficult to find a single family in our area that has not suffered from the effects of this persistent violence.
The insecurity is not limited to Funtua alone. Neighbouring local government areas such as Faskari, Kankara, Bakori, and Sabuwa are equally affected. A visit to these places will reveal a heartbreaking sight: vulnerable people, many of them women and children wandering the streets, begging for food and support.
- NSCDC arrests truck loaded with ‘vandalised’ street light poles
- Barau, minister absent as Kano APC reaffirams loyalty to Ganduje, strategises for 2027
As a result of this crisis, many victims have been relocated to makeshift shelters now known as Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps. These camps, often overcrowded and under-resourced, lack the basic necessities required for a decent life.
Despite several efforts and public outcries, the level of support provided to these victims remains grossly inadequate. Sadly, it appears that many of our lawmakers at both the state and federal levels have not taken meaningful action to address the growing humanitarian crisis. We expected, and still expect, our elected representatives, including our state assembly members and senator to sponsor concrete legislative measures aimed at supporting displaced persons and ending the menace of banditry. By now, we should not be seeing victims of insecurity living in IDP camps or roaming our streets in desperation.
Thus, the responsibility is now on us as a community to act. The community security personnel, especially vigilante groups need communication devices such as walkie-talkies, rechargeable torch lights, fuel for mobility, and a modest monthly stipend to motivate and support them in carrying out their duties effectively.Together, through unity and shared responsibility, we can bring hope to the hopeless and build a safer Funtua for ourselves and future generations.
We, therefore, appeal to all well-meaning individuals, community elders, senior citizens, business owners, civil servants, and all members of the public to contribute to our community.
Let us act now. Let us not wait for others to solve a problem that affects us directly. Our collective strength, generosity, and resolve can make all the difference.
Haruna Hassan resides in Funtua and can be reached via [email protected]