Ganduje to FG: Convert forests to military bases to combat insurgency

The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, has urged the federal government to transform forests into military bases as a strategic measure to curb insurgency and enhance national security.

He made the suggestion during a condolence visit to Yobe State on Wednesday, May 7, following a recent terrorist attack on a military formation in Buni-Gari.

Leading a delegation of the APC National Working Committee (NWC), Ganduje described the issue of insurgency as a national concern requiring immediate attention and a unified response.

He emphasized that the recent attack was a calculated attempt to distract the state from its developmental goals and shift its focus to emergency security matters.

Ganduje called for a comprehensive overhaul of Nigeria’s security strategy, stressing the importance of using technology and surveillance to monitor forests, which have become hideouts for criminal groups.

“Forests that are meant to protect the ecosystem have now become criminal colonies. We must liberate these forests.

“Surveillance cameras and military installations should be used to prevent further occupation by insurgents,” he said.

Drawing on his experience as governor of Kano, where he established a military training base in Falgore Forest to combat criminal activities, Ganduje encouraged Yobe State to consider adopting a similar approach.

The APC chairman also commended Yobe Governor Mai Mala Buni for his efforts in maintaining security in the state despite the ongoing insurgency challenges.

Ganduje expressed deep sympathy over the attack, which resulted in the destruction of a military base, adding, “We are here to sympathize and condole with the government and people of Yobe State over the unfortunate incident in Buni-Gari.”

Governor Buni, in his response, thanked Ganduje and the APC delegation for their visit, describing it as a genuine demonstration of leadership and empathy.

He acknowledged that the attack in Buni-Gari was a national issue, noting that insurgents were targeting military formations to steal weapons, which could be used across the country.

Buni also agreed with Ganduje’s call for a shift in strategy, highlighting that insurgency was evolving and spreading to various regions in different forms.

“This is a wake-up call for all of us. We must act fast, collectively, and with a sense of national duty,” he said.

Looking ahead, Buni confirmed that the issue of insecurity would be a key topic at the upcoming Northern Governors’ Forum meeting in Kaduna, scheduled for May 10.

He reassured the APC leadership that the governors would collaborate with President Bola Tinubu to restore peace and stability in the region, reaffirming the state government’s commitment to supporting security agencies and working with local communities to address the terrorism threat.

The Star