By Usman Umar
Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri’s uncompromising crackdown on political thuggery and criminal gangs in Adamawa State has continued to attract commendation, with public affairs commentator, Malam Salihu Yauba, popularly known as Andal Mayo, describing the governor’s actions as a bold and timely intervention that has saved the state from sliding into a dangerous cycle of violence and insecurity.
Speaking with journalists in Yola, Yauba argued that political thuggery remains one of the major factors behind the growing wave of insecurity and terrorism in Nigeria, noting that politicians often recruit and arm youths during elections only to abandon them after achieving their political ambitions.
He pointed to Borno State as a grim example, saying the activities of the notorious ECOMOG political gang, allegedly nurtured by some politicians, eventually contributed to the emergence of widespread insurgency and terrorism that devastated the state and claimed thousands of lives.
According to him, several Northern states are battling similar challenges. He cited the notorious Kalare gang in Gombe State, the Sara Suka group in Bauchi State, and the Banu Israela network in Taraba State, saying these groups have over the years undermined peace, fueled violent clashes, intimidated citizens, and evolved into sophisticated criminal syndicates.
Yauba noted that despite the establishment of the Anti-Kalare outfit by the Gombe State Government, remnants of the group continue to constitute security threats and hinder efforts aimed at restoring lasting peace in parts of the state.
He revealed that the recent emergence of a group known as Bakowa in Mubi had raised fears among residents, with many expressing concerns that Adamawa could witness a repeat of the ugly experiences recorded in neighboring states.
However, he praised Governor Fintiri for acting swiftly by declaring members of the group wanted and mobilizing security agencies to track and apprehend those involved.
According to him, the decisive intervention by the governor effectively dismantled the network before it could establish itself and unleash terror on innocent citizens.
“Governor Fintiri has demonstrated courage and political will by making it clear that Adamawa will never be a safe haven for criminal gangs or political thugs. His actions have sent a strong warning that no one is above the law,” Yauba stated.
He stressed that only consistent enforcement of the law and a zero-tolerance approach to political violence could break the vicious cycle of insecurity that has plagued parts of Northern Nigeria.
The analyst also expressed concern over the situation in Kano State, lamenting that a city once celebrated for its commercial strength, cultural heritage, and political stability has increasingly witnessed violent confrontations arising from rivalries among supporters of former and present governors, as well as disputes involving competing emirate factions.
He warned that Adamawa must avoid such divisions and preserve the peace currently being enjoyed across the state.
Calling on politicians to fear God and embrace responsible leadership, Yauba urged them to invest in policies that empower young people through education, skills acquisition, and job creation rather than recruiting them as instruments of violence during elections.
He equally appealed to youths to resist attempts by desperate politicians to exploit them for selfish interests, warning that those who sponsor violence often abandon their foot soldiers after elections.
Yauba concluded by praying for sustained peace, unity, and development in Adamawa State and Nigeria as a whole, stressing that security remains the foundation upon which investment, quality education, and economic prosperity can thrive.
He maintained that Governor Fintiri’s decisive actions against political thuggery should serve as a model for other states determined to confront insecurity and protect future generations from the destructive consequences of politically motivated violence.
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