“Niger Governor Bago Launches Tech-Driven Crackdown on Bandits and Informants” Informants”!

Reported by Mustapha Omolabake Omowumi (Journalist) | Sele Media Africa

In a decisive move aimed at curbing escalating insecurity in northern Nigeria, Niger State Governor Mohammed Umar Bago on Thursday announced a comprehensive, technology-driven campaign against armed bandits and the network of informants believed to sustain them. The announcement, made during a visit to Borgu Local Government Area, underscores the state government’s resolve to adopt a tougher stance amid recurring attacks that have disrupted education, farming, and local commerce.

Governor Bago, speaking in a video circulated by Gaskiya News Hausa and verified by multiple Nigerian media outlets, confirmed that the state has deployed advanced monitoring tools capable of tracking and tracing communications linked to criminal activities. “We have gadgets capable of tracking and monitoring your calls,” he warned, addressing both bandits and those acting as their informants. The governor emphasized that any individual found aiding criminal elements whether by relaying information, providing shelter, or assisting in attacks would face prosecution as part of the criminal network.

The declaration reflects mounting frustration among authorities after years of banditry that has left communities displaced, killed hundreds, and disrupted schooling and agriculture across Niger State. Bandit groups, often heavily armed and highly mobile, have been implicated in kidnappings, ransom schemes, and violent raids on villages. These persistent attacks have forced schools to close in certain areas and prompted urgent calls from parents, educators, and civil society organizations for stronger government intervention.

While advocating a high-tech offensive, Bago appealed for public cooperation, urging residents not to harbor suspects or armed criminals but instead to provide actionable intelligence to security forces. “Don’t hide bandits or informants,” he said, stressing that operations are supported by both the federal government and international partners to enhance enforcement and community safety.

Bago’s hardline stance highlights the increasing challenges of combating criminal networks operating in remote and often inaccessible terrains. He described banditry as a major obstacle to regional development, noting that insecurity has hindered critical sectors such as agriculture and education. His comments resonate amid ongoing national discussions about insecurity in Nigeria’s North-Central region, where successive administrations have struggled to contain armed groups.

However, the governor’s directive to “reveal informants” and his warning that anyone linked to bandits could be added to a “wanted list” have drawn concerns from civil rights advocates. Critics argue that such measures, if misapplied, could target innocent citizens, erode trust in law enforcement, and aggravate local tensions. Similar controversies have arisen in other Nigerian states that implemented aggressive surveillance or community policing initiatives, prompting debates around privacy, due process, and executive authority. Analysts emphasize that clear legal frameworks and oversight mechanisms are critical to ensure security measures do not violate citizens’ rights or fuel further grievances.

The broader security landscape in Nigeria’s central and northern regions remains fragile. Recent mass kidnappings, including the abduction of schoolchildren in neighboring states, have heightened pressure on state and federal authorities to adopt intelligence-led operations and protective measures. Civil society groups continue to advocate a balanced approach combining military intervention, community engagement, and socioeconomic development to address the root causes of banditry and reduce recruitment by criminal networks.

As Niger State advances this new security strategy, all eyes are on how Governor Bago’s administration balances assertive law enforcement with the protection of civil liberties. His commitment to personally oversee action against informants signals strong resolve but also raises questions about accountability, judicial oversight, and the state’s long-term approach to sustainable peace in one of Nigeria’s strategically vital states.

Sources:
Sahara Reporters: “We Have Gadgets To Track Your Calls: Niger Governor Bago Vows To Go After Bandits, Informants” (March 19, 2026)

Punch Online: “Niger gov vows to crush bandits, informants” (March 19, 2026)

Politics Nigeria: “We Are Fully Ready to Confront Bandits and Their Informants – Niger Gov Declares” (March 20, 2026)

Mustapha Labake Omowumi

Mustapha Labake Omowumi is a journalist from Ibadan, Oyo State, and a graduate of the Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE) in Economics and Mathematics. He demonstrates a strong commitment to professional journalism, with a keen interest in writing and storytelling, guided by principles of self-discipline, accuracy, and trustworthiness.

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