Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, yesterday held a closed-door meeting with President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
The meeting came amid growing rumours of possible political realignment by some opposition governors.
However, the discussion centered on security challenges in Bauchi State, especially the worsening situation in Alƙaleri local government area.
Governor Mohammed briefed the President on renewed bandit attacks that have forced several communities to flee their homes. He raised concern over the activities of armed groups operating from forest areas in Gwana, Kafin-Duguri, Mansur, Yalau, Futuk, and Digare.
According to the governor, thousands of armed bandits are believed to have taken control of ungoverned forest zones. He said the attackers now launch regular raids, recruit local youths and former illegal miners, and push families to seek safety in nearby states, including Gombe.
The security situation worsened on February 22, when bandits attacked a Joint Task Force base in Gwana. Two soldiers and a vigilante member were killed during the assault. Several residents were abducted.Security forces later neutralised some of the attackers during counter operations.
Governor Mohammed disclosed that he has visited the affected communities repeatedly to assess the damage and encourage local vigilantes. He praised residents for standing their ground but stressed that the scale of the crisis requires stronger federal intervention.
He requested more military deployment, improved equipment for security agencies, and firm directives from national security chiefs, warning that without urgent action, displacement and loss of lives could increase.
President Tinubu, in response, assured him of federal support to complement Bauchi State’s efforts. He directed security agencies to strengthen operations in the troubled areas and prevent further attacks. He also pledged that the federal government would not allow criminal groups to dominate any part of the country.
Addressing political speculation surrounding the visit, Mohammed said the meeting was strictly about security and governance. He dismissed claims of a possible defection to the ruling party.
The Bauchi governor reaffirmed his loyalty to the People’s Democratic Party. He added that while individual politicians may choose their paths, his focus remains on protecting lives and restoring peace in his state.
