The Emir of Zuru, Alhaji Muhammad Sami Gomo III, has called on the Federal Government to establish additional military formations in Zuru Emirate, Kebbi State, to curb persistent bandit attacks crippling agriculture, mining, and commerce.
Speaking during a courtesy visit to the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (retd.), in Abuja on Saturday, the Emir warned that insecurity has displaced farming communities and deterred private investment in the resource-rich region.
“The security situation demands urgent action. Our emirate has vast agricultural and solid mineral potential, but banditry has denied our people the benefits of these God-given resources,” he stated.
He commended Kebbi State Governor Nasir Idris for “showing seriousness” but stressed that federal reinforcement is critical. “We seek the Federal Government’s sustained support for Governor Idris as he confronts these challenges,” the monarch added.
Responding, Musa described the Emir’s intervention as responsive leadership and pledged to examine the request. “Your concerns are valid and will receive due attention. Governor Idris has remained consistent in engaging security institutions, and collaboration is key,” the minister said.
Zuru Emirate, located in southern Kebbi’s agricultural and mineral belt, has suffered repeated bandit incursions over the past year, especially in Zuru, Sakaba, and Danko/Wasagu local government areas, forcing hundreds of families off farmlands.
The insecurity has also spilled into parts of Sokoto State, where operations are ongoing to protect trade routes.
The Emir’s visit also served as a pitch for the 2026 Uhola Annual International Cultural Festival, intended to reposition the region for agribusiness and tourism, contingent on improved security.
His delegation included former Chief of Army Staff Lt-Gen Ishaya Bamaiyi (retd.), Major-General Muhammadu Magoro (retd.), and House of Representatives member Hon. Kabiru Ibrahim Tukura.
