By Abdullahi Tukur
News Update in Nigeria Today | The Bureau News
The Kebbi State Government, Zuru Local Government Council, and the Concerned Citizens of Tadurga have condemned what they describe as the politicisation of insecurity by the media team of former Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, SAN.
The condemnation follows a press statement signed by Malami’s Special Assistant on Media, Mohammed Bello Doka, which claimed that over 200 people were killed in the recent banditry attack on Tadurga community in Zuru Local Government Area.
In a strongly worded response made available to The Bureau News, the Concerned Tadurga Citizens expressed gratitude for the condolence message conveyed through the statement but criticised the deliberate misinformation regarding the casualty figure.
“Reports from community leaders, security agencies, and humanitarian responders on ground confirm that 10 persons tragically lost their lives—not 200,” the group stated. “Such false reports are not only misleading but capable of inciting unnecessary panic and undermining ongoing peacebuilding efforts.”
The Kebbi State Government described the casualty exaggeration as a “cheap political stunt” and accused Malami’s media team of seeking to use a tragic incident to discredit the administration of Governor Nasir Idris.
“The attempt to weaponise insecurity for political gain is shameful. Rather than acknowledge the state’s rapid response and support for victims, these politicians prefer to fan the flames of division,” the statement read.
The government reiterated its commitment to restoring peace and supporting victims, highlighting that combined efforts between state security operatives and community leaders have already led to the destruction of several bandit hideouts and the neutralisation of criminal elements.
“We urge all well-meaning citizens of Kebbi to reject attempts to politicise security. Insecurity should concern us all, regardless of political leanings,” the group said.
The Kebbi State Government, Zuru Local Government Council, and Tadurga community jointly called for unity and collaboration in addressing insecurity, stressing that their focus remains on rebuilding lives, strengthening local security, and preventing future attacks.