Kebbi Government Moves to Introduce Death Penalty for Bandit Informants After Deadly Attacks

The Kebbi State Government has announced plans to amend its laws to impose the death penalty or life imprisonment on individuals found guilty of aiding bandits by supplying them with information. The move comes in response to recent violent attacks in Tadurga village (Zuru Emirate) and Kyebu in Danko/Wasagu Local Government Area, which claimed at least 30 lives.

Governor Nasiru Idris made the announcement on Tuesday during a condolence visit to the affected communities, where he expressed deep concern over the persistent insecurity and vowed to take tougher measures to curb the menace.

“Informants Are Deadly Elements in Society” — Governor Idris

Speaking during the visit, Governor Idris said, “We are here to see things for ourselves, commiserate with you, and reassure you about the urgent actions taken to bolster the security of lives and property of the people.”

He described informants as dangerous enablers of criminality and pledged to treat all security-related issues with renewed seriousness and urgency.

Security Infrastructure Boost

As part of its broader response to insecurity, the governor revealed that the state had finalized arrangements for the establishment of a Nigerian Army operational base in the Zuru Emirate, a strategic move aimed at enhancing military presence and rapid response capability.

In addition, Governor Idris disclosed that Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) and other essential equipment had already been deployed to Kebbi from Abuja to support security operations.

Highlighting ongoing investments in security, he stated:

“My administration has expended a substantial amount on security. We procured 80 Hilux vehicles for security personnel, provided 1,500 motorcycles to vigilantes, and increased allowances for operatives working in high-risk areas.”

Warning Against Misinformation and Politicisation

The governor also urged residents to avoid politicising security matters and warned against the spread of unverified information via social media platforms, which he said could further endanger lives and compromise security efforts.

Traditional Rulers Demand More Military Presence

During the visit, traditional rulers including Alhaji Ibrahim Al’aji, Chief of Danko Chiefdom, and Alhaji Suleiman Sami, Chief of Dabai Chiefdom, expressed gratitude for the governor’s concern but stressed the need for a stronger military presence, especially in border communities where bandits are known to infiltrate from neighbouring states.

Also speaking, Emir of Zuru, Rtd. Major General Sani Sami, commended the state government’s proactive steps and the governor’s personal visit, which he described as a sign of genuine leadership and empathy.