Reports indicate that bandits have taken control of the military training camp at Nagwamase Military Cantonment in Kontagora, headquarters of Kontagora Local Government Area in Niger State. This incursion has forced the displacement of at least 23 communities in the camp’s vicinity.
The training camp is one of the largest military training grounds in the country. During a recent plenary session, Abdullah Isah, the state House of Assembly member representing Kontagora II, highlighted the urgent need to address the situation.
He revealed that the camp’s extensive land area stretches into parts of Mariga Local Government Area, which has also reportedly fallen under the bandits’ control. Consequently, the Assembly has urged the state government to work with military authorities to expel the bandits from the camp, which also houses numerous communities in the area.
In his motion, the member stated, “This military camp is now occupied by bandits who have established at least eight separate camps in the area. This situation has created a severe security challenge for communities within both Kontagora and Mariga LGAs.” He added that these communities have been subjected to a series of intense attacks over the past month, with the bandits operating openly.
Some community members who were abducted in recent incidents remain in captivity. The Assembly member appealed to the government to take decisive action to clear out the terrorists. He further urged the government to provide the military with modern equipment and logistical support to restore security in the area.
Most residents from the 23 affected communities are farmers, who have now fled their ancestral homes and farmlands.
