Kano Assembly orders probe into LG security funds over rising bandit attacks

The Kano State House of Assembly has ordered an investigation into the utilisation of monthly security allocations released to local government councils as part of efforts to strengthen accountability and tackle the growing wave of insecurity in border communities.

The resolution followed a motion of urgent public importance sponsored by the member representing Ghari/Tsanyawa Constituency, Garba Gwarmai, during plenary presided over by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Isma’il Falgore.

Moving the motion, Gwarmai expressed concern over the renewed attacks by suspected bandits in communities within Tsanyawa Local Government Area, saying the worsening security situation had disrupted farming, education, healthcare services and commercial activities.

He informed the House that the latest attack occurred in Yan Cibi community of Yan Kamaye Ward, where suspected bandits allegedly attempted to abduct residents and rustle livestock before security operatives repelled them.

According to him, the attack claimed the life of a community leader and vigilante member, Yusuf Adamu, while several residents sustained gunshot injuries and are currently receiving treatment at Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital.

The lawmaker commended the military and the police for recovering many of the rustled cattle but noted that security personnel were unable to pursue the fleeing attackers because of the difficult terrain along the Kano-Katsina border.

He appealed to both the Kano State and Federal Governments to strengthen security in the affected communities through the deployment of additional personnel and improved logistics.

Gwarmai also questioned the utilisation of the monthly security allocations reportedly released to local government councils, alleging that security operatives in the area lacked adequate logistical support despite the availability of the funds.

He recalled that the Assembly had earlier directed the affected local government councils to submit reports detailing how the security allocations were utilised but said the directive had yet to be complied with.

Following deliberations, the House mandated its relevant committee to investigate the utilisation of the security funds by the affected local government councils and ensure accountability in their management.

The Assembly also urged the Kano State and Federal Governments to take urgent steps to reinforce security across border communities, particularly in Tsanyawa and Bagwai local government areas, to prevent further attacks and stop the insecurity from spreading to other parts of the state.