A local vigilante leader in Plateau State’s Wase Local Government Area, Abdullahi Hussaini, has pledged to continue the fight against bandits and kidnappers, despite the recent loss of over 70 of his men in a deadly ambush.

The attack took place on Monday in Kukawa community (Kanam LGA) and Bunyun village (Wase LGA), where dozens of vigilantes were killed while attempting to track down bandits hiding in the area.

Hundreds of vigilantes had mobilized in response to years of persistent attacks on Wase communities by criminal elements.

Speaking after the incident, Hussaini — who personally participated in the operation — acknowledged the losses but reaffirmed their determination.

“We will never surrender to the bandits and kidnappers,” he said.

He emphasized that their mission would only end when the bandits either leave Wase, repent, or are defeated in battle.

“Our casualties won’t stop us. Death is a part of life, but surrender is not. We’ll continue this fight,” he declared, while urging Nigerians to pray for their success.

He also called on citizens nationwide to resist the growing threat of banditry, warning that it poses a serious risk to national security and unity.

Governor Deploys 150 Agro-Rangers to Strengthen Farm Security

In a related development, Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang has deployed 150 newly trained agro-rangers to provide security for farmers and agricultural produce across the state.

The announcement was made during the passing-out parade of the officers held on Tuesday at the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Command and Staff College in Naton-Fursa, Jos East LGA.

According to a statement by his Director of Press and Public Affairs, Gyang Bere, the governor described the initiative as a strategic intervention to boost food security and move toward food sovereignty in Nigeria.

“Our farms are national assets and must be protected. Farmers must be able to travel to and from their fields safely if we are to guarantee food security,” Mutfwang said.

He expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for his support and commended security agencies for their collaborative efforts in tackling insecurity in Plateau State.

Mutfwang praised the NSCDC’s agro-rangers initiative as a valuable complement to conventional security forces, particularly in rural, farming-dependent areas.

“Rural insecurity undermines national stability and economic growth. A hungry population is vulnerable to manipulation,” he warned, emphasizing the importance of securing the agricultural sector.

He cited the recent peaceful evacuation of thousands of stranded cattle from Bokkos LGA—achieved without violence—as a demonstration of the effectiveness and professionalism of the agro-rangers and their partners.

Addressing the newly commissioned personnel, the governor urged them to serve with integrity, fairness, and patriotism.

“This is more than a job; it’s a noble sacrifice for your fellow citizens. Uphold justice and remain dedicated to protecting our food systems and communities,” he charged.

NSCDC Commandant General Dr. Ahmed Audi, who was also present, noted this was the second batch of agro-rangers to be deployed in Plateau State. He reaffirmed the corps’ commitment to supporting the state government in securing farming communities.

“We are proud to play a part in ensuring lasting peace and food security. These officers are specially trained to protect farmers and will continue to expand their reach across the country,” Audi stated.

Earlier, he paid a courtesy visit to Governor Mutfwang, where both parties discussed further strategies to combat insecurity in the region.