The Niger State government has asked villagers, particularly in the Shiroro Local Government Area, to suspend farming for fear of running into Improvised Explosive Devices IEDs planted by bandits.
According to the state government, the military is currently searching for the explosives to detonate them, hence, farmers should allow them complete the exercise before venturing out to their farms.
Last year, detonated explosives placed by bandits on farm road tracks became a recurring hazard in Niger State, particularly in Shiroro Local Government Area, resulting in three deaths and several injuries.
On December 19, 2024, three bomb explosions occurred in the Bassa community of Shiroro LGA, killing three individuals and injuring five others.
The State Commissioner for Homeland Security, Bello Abdullahi, gave the advice on Monday in Minna during the 2024 Base Socio-Cultural Activities at the 013 Quick Response Force of the Nigerian Air Force.
Abdullahi specifically cautioned residents of Basa in the Shiroro Local Government Area about the renewed threat of bombs being hidden in farms along the fringes of the area.
“We are warning our farmers to be careful about going to their farms for now.
Bandits have hidden IEDs in the ground to cause disaster,” Abdullahi said. “The military must first clear the suspected mine-laden areas before local movement can resume safely.”
Representing Governor Mohammed Bago at the event, Abdullahi emphasised the increasing threat posed by terrorists using explosives and assured that military efforts were ongoing to address terrorism and banditry in the state.
“The governor has reiterated the government’s dependence on the military to clear the areas of mines in Shiroro,” Abdullahi added.
The Commander of the 013 Quick Response Force, Group Captain Austine Idoko, reassured attendees of the military’s commitment to continued operations aimed at eradicating terrorism and banditry under the guidance of the Chief of Air Staff.
The Base Socio-Cultural Activities is an annual celebration marking the conclusion of a successful operational year for the 013 Quick Response Force.
The event highlights the rich cultural heritage of Nigerian Air Force personnel and fosters unity among personnel families and the host community.