The Niger State Government has stepped up efforts to tackle rising cases of youth crime, drug abuse, theft, and violent attacks in Minna metropolis.
The Commissioner for Homeland Security, Barrister Maurice Magaji, disclosed this to Journalists while explaining the government's ongoing security operations aimed at restoring peace and order in the state capital.
According to him, intelligence reports revealed increasing activities of youth gangs, popularly known as " Yan Daba," who have been linked to the use and sale of illicit drugs, theft, territorial clashes, and other criminal activities. He said the situation had become a serious concern, forcing the government to take immediate action.
The commissioner explained that the Ministry agencies embarked on a sensitization tour across communities in Chanchaga and Bosso Local Government Areas to engage traditional rulers, community leaders, opinion moulders, and residents on the need to work together in fighting crime.
He noted that the exercise involved conventional and non-conventional security agencies, including the police, Department of State Services (DSS), National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), and the Niger State Urban Development Board.
According to him, many criminal suspects operate from illegal settlements, uncompleted buildings, and makeshift structures. He warned that any structure found to be used for criminal activities would face demolition in line with the directive of Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago.
"We want criminals to know that the government is serious. If they choose to live peacefully and obey the law, they are welcome. If not, they must leave our communities," he said.
Barrister Maurice Magaji stressed that Minna residents deserve to move freely and conduct their lawful businesses without fear of harassment, robbery, or attacks by criminal gangs.
He disclosed that security personnel visited several communities, including Bosso, Maitumbi, Central Area, Tunga, Tudun Wada, Chanchaga, and Pakungu, where they received valuable information from residents and traditional leaders.
Magaji said community leaders expressed concern that many youths involved in crime no longer respect traditional authorities, largely due to drug abuse and the influence of outsiders attracted by urbanization and mining activities.
He urged residents to provide credible information to security agencies, describing intelligence sharing as a civic responsibility necessary for protecting lives and property.
The commissioner further revealed that the government has developed a comprehensive strategy that covers arrest, investigation, prosecution, and conviction of offenders. He said designated courts and state counsel would handle the prosecution of suspects to ensure that criminal cases are pursued to their conclusion.
He also warned politicians and influential individuals against interfering with security operations, assuring security agencies of government backing in carrying out their duties professionally.
On the recent tensions in Borgu Local Government Area, Barrister Maurice Magaji said the crisis began as a disagreement between two young persons before taking on an ethnic dimension. He noted that security agencies and community leaders quickly intervened to prevent further escalation.
He added that security operations remain active across parts of Niger State and border communities, with intelligence gathering, surveillance, and joint operations continuing to keep criminal elements under pressure.
The commissioner expressed confidence that the ongoing measures would restore lasting peace, saying the security of lives and property remains the top priority of the Niger State Government.
He assured residents that the government would sustain the operations until criminal activities are significantly reduced and Minna regains its reputation as a peaceful city.
