Former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy Professor Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami has strongly condemned the escalating violence across multiple northern Nigerian states, calling for immediate adoption of modern technology to combat security challenges.
Wave of Violence Grips Northern States
The cybersecurity expert expressed deep concern following a series of deadly incidents reported within one week across Kebbi, Zamfara, Kwara, and Borno States. In a Facebook post, Pantami emphasized that the current pattern of attacks demands an urgent shift in operational tactics to protect citizens effectively.
The former minister referenced several tragic incidents that have shocked the nation, beginning with the abduction and subsequent killing of Alqasim Uthman Ibrahim, the Ameer of the Muslim Students Society of Nigeria in Kebbi State, on November 16.
Multiple Attacks Claim Lives and Freedom
On November 17, gunmen invaded Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School in Maga, Kebbi State, abducting 25 female students. During the assault, the Chief Security Officer, Hassan Yakubu Makuku, lost his life while courageously trying to protect the students. Another guard, Ali Shehu, sustained hand injuries during the confrontation with the attackers.
The violence continued on November 18 when bandits stormed Fegin Baza village in Zamfara State, killing three people including Umaru Moriki, the Sarkin Fadan Moriki. At least 64 residents were abducted during this attack, with many victims being women and children. The wounded were rushed to Tsafe General Hospital for emergency treatment.
Kwara State also experienced violence when bandits attacked the Christ Apostolic Church in Eruku, abducting worshippers. Borno State suffered another tragedy with the death of Brigadier-General Musa Uba near Damboa, alongside several civilians and security officers confirmed dead or injured.
Technology-Driven Security Solutions Proposed
Professor Pantami, who holds the traditional title of Majidadin Daular Usmaniyya, advocated for a technology-supported security framework that would enhance tracking capabilities of offenders, protect vulnerable communities, and gradually restore peace to affected areas.
The cybersecurity professor urged security agencies to work closely with citizens, emphasizing the importance of intelligence sharing and community cooperation in confronting criminal elements. He appealed to Nigerians to provide credible information that could assist security operations.
Pantami extended heartfelt condolences to families mourning their loved ones and expressed sympathy for those abducted, praying for their safe return. He declared solidarity with citizens who have condemned what he described as persistent inhumanity across the country.
The former minister's call for technological intervention comes as police tactical units prepare for search and rescue operations following the abduction of the 25 students in Kebbi. Security experts have increasingly emphasized the need for modern surveillance and tracking systems to combat the sophisticated tactics employed by bandits and terrorist groups operating in northern Nigeria.
