The Niger State House of Assembly has called for the establishment of additional military bases in vulnerable communities across the state after a deadly encounter between Nigerian Army troops and over 100 suspected bandits along the Zungeru-Tegina road. This resolution comes in the wake of a gun battle that resulted in the death of one soldier and injuries to three others, while also preventing what lawmakers described as a potential massacre of innocent residents in the Rafi Local Government Area.

During a plenary session on Tuesday, Hon. Zubairu Ismail Zanna, the representative for Rafi State Constituency, moved a motion of commendation for the military's swift response in repelling the attackers. Zanna praised the soldiers for their courage and professionalism, emphasizing that their timely intervention thwarted the bandits' plans to overrun local communities.

The attack, which took place about two weeks ago, saw the armed bandits invade several communities along the Zungeru-Tegina road. Thanks to the military's efforts, several bandits were neutralized during the confrontation, and motorcycles used by the criminals were recovered. However, the loss of one soldier highlighted the ongoing risks faced by security personnel in the region.

In his remarks, Zanna urged the Nigerian Army and other security agencies to maintain and strengthen their operations in areas frequently targeted by bandits. He pointed out that the strategic and economic significance of these regions necessitated the establishment of a Forward Operating Base (FOB) to prevent bandits from regrouping and launching further attacks.

Zanna also noted that the lack of military bases and strategically positioned security formations along vulnerable routes could hinder the ability of security forces to respond effectively to emergencies. He highlighted the challenges posed by difficult terrain, extensive forests, and inadequately secured rural routes, which allow criminal groups to infiltrate communities and establish camps.

The lawmaker called on the Niger State Government to engage with the Federal Government urgently to secure the establishment of more military bases in these vulnerable areas, particularly along routes often exploited by bandits. He asserted that a stronger military presence would enhance response times, improve surveillance, and help prevent armed groups from using remote communities as operational bases.

In a show of respect, the Speaker of the House, Abdulmalik Sarkindaji, led a minute of silence in honour of the fallen soldier and offered prayers for the injured personnel who are currently receiving treatment. The Assembly's call for increased military presence underscores the ongoing security challenges in Niger State and the need for a robust response to protect vulnerable communities from banditry.