By Ibrahim Hassan-Wuyo

KADUNA — A community leader from Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State has raised fresh concerns over the role of internal collaborators in sustaining banditry and kidnapping in parts of Southern Kaduna, calling for urgent collective action to address the crisis.

In a statement, Prince Kevin Bulus Bahago Kufana said persistent insecurity in Kajuru and Kachia LGAs, dating back to 2015, has taken a new dimension, with recent incidents underscoring the need for a shift in response strategies.

He cited a recent attack on Ariko community, which reportedly left six persons dead and 37 abducted, as evidence of the continuing threat.

Kufana noted that while government bears the constitutional responsibility for security, lasting peace can only be achieved through stronger collaboration between authorities and local communities.

According to him, the pattern of attacks has evolved from large-scale killings to kidnapping for ransom, with relatively fewer fatalities recorded in recent times. He added that there were signs of gradual improvement, as some displaced communities have begun returning and economic activities such as farming and trading are slowly resuming.

He disclosed that the number of displaced Adara communities had reduced from over 130 as of May 2023 to about 74 by early 2026, attributing the progress to ongoing security operations and peace initiatives of Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani.

Despite the gains, Kufana warned that internal sabotage remains a major obstacle, alleging that some residents act as informants, collaborators, and even leaders of bandit groups.

He cited instances of alleged local actors rising within bandit ranks, describing it as a growing threat that undermines security efforts. He further claimed that some communities had entered informal arrangements with criminal elements, exchanging information and support for temporary relief.

The community leader expressed concern over what he described as silence among local elites, urging a shift from solely blaming government to confronting internal challenges.

He noted that other parts of Southern Kaduna, including Kauru, Kaura and Zangon Kataf, have recorded progress by strengthening internal vigilance and cooperation with security agencies.

Kufana called for the convening of a security summit to develop practical frameworks for tackling informants and enhancing collaboration with authorities.

He also urged residents to support ongoing federal and state efforts under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Sani to restore stability in the region.

According to him, addressing internal collaboration and adopting community-driven security measures are critical to ending the cycle of violence and fostering sustainable peace.

He added that improved security in Kajuru and Kachia would boost economic activities and drive long-term development across Southern Kaduna.