Nigerian governors have expressed concerns over the deepening security crisis in north-west states, saying it may hamper elections in the geopolitical zone.
North-west comprises seven states — Jigawa, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Kebbi, Sokoto, and Zamfara.
The governors’ concerns were contained in a policy brief shared with President Muhammadu Buhari.
The brief was part of the political economy situation review sent to the president in July 2022.
The governors asked the president to immediately fulfil various promises to address insecurity, according to a copy of the review seen by TheCable.
INSECURITY IN NORTH-WEST
To stem the tide of insecurity, the governors urged the president to take urgent steps to establish military bases in Birnin Gwari, Rijana, Kachia and Mararraban Jos in Kaduna state and Kontagora and Gwada in Niger state.
“Expedite promised the establishment of military bases in Birnin Gwari, Rijana, Kachia and Mararraban Jos in Kaduna State, and Kontagora and Gwada in Niger State,” the review reads.
“Ensure promised simultaneous operations scheduled for July 1 but yet to commence are ordered and complied with IMMEDIATELY.
“Ensure operations prevent Boko Haram terrorists from attacking the Shiroro R2 transmission line (R1 already down and inaccessible), which will throw the entire north-west and Niger into darkness.
“Renewed appeal for a Theatre Command in the north-west along with deployment of MNJTF due to borders with Niger and Benin Republics that are major sources of arms and ammunition.”