Wase, Plateau State – Abdullahi Hussaini, a prominent vigilante leader in Wase Local Government Area of Plateau State, has declared an unwavering resolve to continue the fight against bandits and kidnappers, despite the devastating loss of over 70 of his members in a recent ambush.
The incident, which occurred on Monday in the Kukawa community in Kanam and Bunyun village in Wase, marks a significant blow to local efforts aimed at restoring peace to communities plagued by incessant attacks.
Reports indicate that hundreds of vigilantes had converged to track down notorious bandit groups in their hideouts. This mass mobilization was a direct response to the escalating and rampant attacks on various villages across Wase LG in recent years, which have brought fear and instability to residents.
Speaking on Tuesday, Hussaini, who himself participated in Sunday’s operation and survived the ambush, acknowledged the profound casualties and injuries sustained by his team. However, his resolve remains unshaken, as he firmly stated, “We will never surrender to the bandits and kidnappers.”
He outlined clear conditions for the cessation of their operation, emphasizing that the fight would only conclude if the bandits either vacate Wase, genuinely repent and cease their criminal activities, or if they are decisively defeated by the vigilante forces.
Underscoring the personal commitment of his fighters, Hussaini declared, “The casualties we recorded will not discourage us from continuing the fight against banditry in the Wase area. Death is inevitable; everyone will die. So, we’ll continue the fight.”
The determined stance of the Wase vigilantes highlights the desperate measures local communities are resorting to in the face of persistent insecurity and the complex challenges of combating well-armed criminal syndicates. Despite the heavy price paid, the fight for peace in Plateau State’s troubled areas continues with grim determination.
