NDC Raises Alarm Over IED Threat in Zamfara

The Zamfara State chapter of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, has called for urgent security measures following a reported attempt by suspected bandits to plant an improvised explosive device, IED, along the Gurusu-Gwashi Road in Bukkuyum Local Government Area.

The party made the call in a statement issued by its Publicity Secretary, Alkasimu Mustapha Kayatawa, warning that the reported development could worsen the security situation in the state.

The NDC said the reported presence of an explosive device on a public road had created an additional danger for motorists, commuters, farmers, traders and security personnel who use the route.

The party called for stronger security operations in Bukkuyum and other areas considered vulnerable to attacks. It urged security agencies to improve intelligence gathering, increase patrols and strengthen their ability to detect and deal with explosive devices.

The NDC also appealed to the Federal Government to deploy more security personnel to Zamfara and protect major roads and communities exposed to attacks.

The party questioned the large security deployment for the recent Osun State governorship election, noting that about 30 commissioners of police and thousands of other security personnel were reportedly involved in election duties.

It argued that similar attention and resources should be directed towards protecting lives and property in Zamfara, where residents have faced prolonged insecurity.

The party urged security agencies to secure the Gurusu-Gwashi corridor and other important roads in Bukkuyum to prevent criminal groups from using explosive devices against civilians.

It also asked the Zamfara State Government to work more closely with federal security agencies and improve community-based intelligence systems. According to the party, residents can provide useful information that could help security forces identify threats before attacks occur.

The NDC said the situation in Zamfara required sustained action because many communities have already suffered deaths, displacement and financial losses as a result of insecurity.

The party further called for increased national attention to the security challenges facing Zamfara, saying residents should receive adequate protection regardless of whether there is an election taking place.

The reported IED threat adds to the long-running security problems in Zamfara, where communities have faced attacks and other criminal activities. The NDC said authorities must act quickly to prevent roads and other public spaces from becoming targets for explosive attacks.

The party maintained that protecting residents, securing major highways and allowing farmers, traders and other citizens to move freely should remain a priority for both the federal and state governments.