Fresh security concerns in Birnin Gwari Emirate are threatening nearly two years of relative peace in an area once notorious for banditry, raising fears among residents, farmers and community leaders about the future of stability and economic recovery in the region.
In a statement signed and issued to newsmen on Saturday by its Chairman, Isah Muhammad, the Birnin Gwari Emirate Progressives Union (BEPU) expressed concern over reports of renewed criminal activities by a few armed elements who continue to operate outside ongoing peace arrangements. According to the union, some of the criminal groups have reportedly invaded farmlands, intimidated farmers and forcefully seized motorcycles, mobile phones and other valuables belonging to residents.
The group warned that if urgent measures are not taken to curb the activities of these elements, the hard-earned peace achieved through collaboration among government authorities, security agencies, traditional institutions and community stakeholders could be undermined.
BEPU’s concerns were heightened by the recent killing of Ibrahim Adamu, a commercial driver from Birnin Gwari, who was reportedly attacked while travelling from Kaduna to Birnin Gwari through the Buruku area of Chikun Local Government Area. The incident, which occurred three days ago, has generated widespread grief and renewed anxiety among residents about security along major routes connecting the emirate.
