By correspondent in Minna.
Residents and travelers along the Minna-Kontagora highway in Niger State have expressed concern over the safety of life and property,following the movement of a large group of unidentified individuals on motorcycles that passed through the area on Monday afternoon.
The group, estimated to be in the hundreds, was spotted moving across the road between Kampanin-bobi and Wamba in Mariga Local Government Area. Eyewitnesses noted that many of the riders, some with passengers, appeared to be armed.
Our correspondent reports that this development led to momentary disruption of traffic, as some motorists paused their journey or diverted through alternative routes toward Kontagora.
Local sources suggest the riders may have been passing through from nearby states, possibly in response to ongoing military operations in parts states sharing boundaries with Nigeria.
One commercial driver ,who would not want his identity disclosed,recounted how he and others waited for nearly an hour before continuing their journey, allowing the group to pass without incident.
Security sources indicate that the military unit based at Beri camp has been informed and is monitoring the situation. Although police authorities in the state have yet to confirm the incident the Reporters further gathered that preparations are on to ensure continued security in the area.
The Chairman of Mariga Local Government Area, Alhaji Abbas Kasuwa Garba, who confirmed the incident in a telephone interview with journalists assured residents that joint security forces had been mobilized to maintain calm and protect the affected communities.
He also acknowledged the efforts of local vigilantes, noting that while some engaged the group in self-defense, resulting in casualties, saying that measures are in place to prevent escalation of the problem.
He urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with security operatives, adding that all efforts are being made to to maintain peace and safety in the area.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
