Bandits’ incursion into Kano a ‘final straw’ for Northern Nigeria, anti-corruption group warns

A civic organisation, Citizens Participation Against Corruption Initiative (CPACI), has raised concern over the recent bandit attacks in Shanono, Bagwai and Tsanyawa local government areas of Kano State, warning that the development represents a “dangerous turning point” that could destabilise the northern region if not urgently addressed. Addressing a press conference in Abuja, Executive Director […]

A civic organisation, Citizens Participation Against Corruption Initiative (CPACI), has raised concern over the recent bandit attacks in Shanono, Bagwai and Tsanyawa local government areas of Kano State, warning that the development represents a “dangerous turning point” that could destabilise the northern region if not urgently addressed.

Addressing a press conference in Abuja, Executive Director of the group, Comrade Bishir Dauda, said Kano — long regarded as one of the North’s most secure and economically resilient states — has now experienced incidents similar to those previously concentrated in frontline states such as Zamfara, Katsina and Kaduna.

“The penetration of bandits into Kano, a hitherto safe and peaceful state, is a major warning sign that could affect the economic backbone of Northern Nigeria,” Dauda said.

“If this emerging threat is not addressed swiftly, it may escalate. God forbid.”

The group warned that allowing banditry to take root in Kano would have far-reaching consequences, given the state’s population size and its cultural and economic significance to the region.

Dauda said every effort must be deployed to prevent Kano from “becoming vulnerable to escalating insecurity.”

CPACI also cautioned against the politicisation of security issues, noting that doing so undermines efforts to combat terrorism, banditry and kidnapping.

The group emphasised the need for thorough investigation into recent concerns raised by the Kano State government regarding political interference in security matters, stressing that such claims should not be dismissed without due scrutiny.

Dauda urged all political actors to prioritise peace and stability, and called on leaders at all levels to avoid actions or rhetoric that could heighten tensions.

The organisation further criticised a call by an unnamed individual in Kano advocating the creation of a militia-style structure under the guise of community protection.

Dauda described the proposal as unsafe and counterproductive.

“Turning any institution into a militia group is a dangerous idea that could ignite internal conflict. Such proposals run contrary to the goals of democracy and stability,” he said.