The Zamfara State Government has urged residents of the state to take up arms and ammunition to defend themselves from the menace of banditry in the state.
This was contained in a statement signed by the State Commissioner for Information, Ibrahim Mogaji Dosara.
Zamfara government also directed security agencies to shoot on sight, anyone caught riding motorcycles in parts of the state where they are banned.
The statement read in part; “Following increase in the activities of bandits in various parts of the state and the government commitment to ensure adequate security and protection of lives and property of the citizenry in the state, particularly during this rainy season, government has resolved to take further measures to deal with the recent escalating attacks, kidnapping and the criminal levies being enforced on our innocent communities.
“This act of terrorism has been a source of worry and concern to the people and government of the state. Therefore, in order to deal decisively with the situation in our respective communities, government has no option than to take the following measures:
“Government has henceforth, directed individuals to prepare and obtain guns to defend themselves against the bandits, as government has directed the state commissioner of police to issue license to all those who qualify and are wishing to obtain such guns to defend themselves.
“Zamfara Government is ready to facilitate people, especially our farmers to secure basic weapons for defending themselves.
Government has already concluded arrangement to distribute 500 forms to each of the 19 Emirates in the state for those willing to obtain guns to defend themselves.
“Furthermore, in view of the deteriorating security situation in Mada, Wonaka, and Ruwan Bore Districts of Gusau local government, as well as Yansoto emirate in Tsafe local government, His Excellency, Governor Mohammed Matawalle MON, Barden Hausa and Shatiman Sokoto, has approved the immediate closure of all markets and Kara in these districts and Yandoto emirate indefinitely.
“In addition this, government has equally banned riding of motorbikes and selling of petroleum products in Mada, Wonaka and Ruwan Bore districts, as well as Yandoto emirate.
“Henceforth, all filling stations on the affected areas are hereby closed with immediate effect.
Anybody found riding motorbike within the areas is considered as bandits and security agencies are thereby directed to shoot such persons at sight.
“Security agencies are by this announcement directed to ensure strict compliance.
Anybody found violating this order should be dealt with according to the rule of law.”