Residents of no fewer than 13 communities displaced by insurgents have so far returned home following relative peace in their areas, according to a government official in Kebbi State, Northwest Nigeria.
The communities had been displaced following banditry attacks in the southern part of Kebbi State.
The Council Chairman, Danko Wasagu Local Government Area, Aliyu Hussaini-Bena, confirmed the development in Birnin Kebbi, saying that all the villagers who were sent out of their respective communities in the last three years have been resettled, and have continued with their normal businesses.
He attributed the achievement to the support enjoyed by security personnel from the present administration.
The State Governor had supported the Nigerian Army with equipment for fighting the bandits, and in turn to restore peace and stability in the area.
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Hussaini-Bena explained that the Bena Market, being the largest with the highest Internally Generated Revenue, (IGR) in the state, has been re-opened, where foreigners from other countries also patronize.
The Council boss expressed delight over the regained freedom of his people while applauding the security agencies for their tireless, gallant efforts in patrolling the areas day and night to ensure that the bandits were completely dislodged.
He listed the 13 communities that returned to include; Sawade, Bakin Gulunbi, Bakin Gulunbi Mai Kpanu, Malekachi, Sakawa, Sabongida, Kauran Mai Zanma, Luga, Angela Kibiya, Angela Dado, Tsirinda, Kasama and Ma’ako.
According to him, Danko Wasagu is the major local government that had a large number of refugees because it shared a common boundary with Zamfara and Niger States.
(Editor: Ken Eseni)