Kano CSOs Coalition Faults Daily Trust Report on Banditry, Says State Remains Peaceful

More than 260 civil society organisations under the Kano Patriotic CSOs Coalition Forum (KPCF) have faulted a Daily Trust lead story titled “Kano — New Bandits Frontier” published on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, describing it as misleading and capable of causing unnecessary fear among residents and investors.

In a statement jointly signed by the convener, Hassan Ibrahim Gama, and co-convener, Mustapha Muhammed Chiroma, the coalition said the report contained “distorted narratives, exaggerated claims and conclusions that do not reflect the security realities in Kano.”

‘No Evidence Kano Has Become a Bandits’ Frontier’

The groups said recent security incidents recorded in some border communities were spillovers from neighbouring states, especially Katsina, noting that similar challenges were being experienced across northern Nigeria.

According to the coalition, security agencies have recently conducted successful operations which include the neutralisation of bandits in Shanono, rescue of kidnapped victims, and intensified intelligence activities along border routes.

They stressed that Kano metropolis has not recorded any banditry attacks and remains one of the most stable urban centres in northern Nigeria.

‘No Breakdown Between Government and Police’

KPCF also dismissed suggestions in the report that there is a rift between the Kano State Government and federal security agencies.

They said all security formations — including the Army, Police, DSS, NSCDC, KAROTA, Hisbah and local vigilantes — continue to operate through established inter-agency coordination structures, with regular meetings of the State Security Council.

The coalition added that the “emirate controversy” referenced in the publication has no connection to ongoing security operations in the state.

Business Environment ‘Unaffected’ by Insecurity Claims

The forum further faulted the newspaper’s portrayal of Kano’s business climate, saying markets, industries and transport corridors continue to operate without disruption.

They highlighted measures taken by the government to reinforce security including night patrols, enhanced intelligence gathering, motorcycle/tricycle regulation, border monitoring and community vigilance networks.

‘Daily Trust Ignored Government Efforts’

According to the statement, the report failed to acknowledge several recent interventions such as joint operations along the border axis, activation of emergency response units, enforcement of the 2013 motorcycle regulation law, and enhanced collaboration between Kano and neighbouring states.

The CSOs described these omissions as “a major factual gap” that contributed to an “alarmist narrative.”

‘Sensational Reporting Undermines Public Trust’

The coalition criticised the use of terms like “new bandits frontier,” saying such expressions exaggerate the situation, lower public confidence, and impact investor perception.

They noted that the arrest of suspects at Kofar Ruwa — mentioned in the report — actually demonstrates the vigilance and responsiveness of Kano residents and security agencies.

Coalition Calls for Responsible Journalism

While acknowledging the importance of media scrutiny, the CSOs urged news organisations to ensure fairness, accuracy and responsible reporting to avoid harming the state’s economic prospects or causing unnecessary public anxiety.

They reaffirmed that Kano remains peaceful and united, and that border-related security challenges are being addressed promptly and professionally.

The statement was endorsed by 262 civil society organisations, including groups working in education, women’s development, peacebuilding, humanitarian assistance, community development, and youth mobilisation across the state.