The Nigerian military has closed its camp and withdrawn troops from Allawa community in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State following renewed attacks in the area. Politics Nigeria reported that the attacks prompted hundreds of locals, including women, the elderly, and children, to flee their homes in search of safety.
Residents reported waking up on Thursday to find soldiers dismantling their tents in preparation to leave the community. This withdrawal came two days after a military vehicle hit a landmine along the Allawa-Pandogari road, resulting in unspecified casualties.
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Mallam Yahuza Allawa, another resident, disclosed that dozens of people had left their communities as early as 4 am on foot, heading towards Erena, Gwada, Kuta, or Zumba for safety. He expressed concern over the lack of vehicles to evacuate them quickly and highlighted the perilous journey faced by fleeing residents, including the elderly.
The fleeing farmers were unable to evacuate their belongings, including hundreds of goats, domestic animals, foodstuffs, and other valuables due to the shortage of vehicles. The presence of the military had previously provided a sense of security to Allawa and neighboring communities, making their sudden withdrawal surprising to residents.
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Niger State Commissioner for Homeland Security, Brigadier General Bello Abdullahi Mohammed (RTD), confirmed the troop withdrawal, stating it was part of the military’s administrative arrangements to restrategize and address insecurity effectively.
The situation underscores the ongoing challenges faced by communities in Niger State amid persistent attacks by bandits and insurgent groups. The withdrawal of troops raises concerns about the vulnerability of civilians and the need for swift and effective measures to ensure their safety and security.
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