A palpable sense of relief has washed over the northern states of Zamfara, Sokoto, Niger, and others, following the recent elimination of notorious bandit kingpin, Halilu Sububu, by the Nigerian Air Force. Two weeks on, the jubilation continues.
The late Halilu Sububu, a 38-year-old terror mastermind, cast a dark shadow over the region. His reign was marked by violence, fear, and impunity. With connections to terrorist groups across the Sahel, Sububu’s criminal empire extended into illegal gold mining, arms trafficking, and kidnappings.
His reign of terror was characterized by audacious attacks, including a military base assault in Katsina in 2021. Sububu operated with impunity from his forest stronghold in Zamfara State, spreading fear and chaos throughout the region.
However, on September 12, 2024, a daring ambush by Nigerian troops led to the demise of Sububu in Kwaren Kirya, Zamfara State. This significant victory marked a turning point in the fight against terrorism and banditry in the region.
The troops had been tracking Sububu for months. In a meticulously planned operation, they breached his fortified camp and neutralized him along with 38 of his associates. This decisive blow to terrorism has been hailed as a testament to the bravery and determination of the Nigerian Armed Forces.
The neutralized bandits were armed with a variety of weapons, including five AK-47 assault rifles, three PKT machine guns, 29 magazines, and over 1,000 rounds of ammunition. These weapons, known for their reliability and firepower, were a key factor in the bandits’ ability to terrorize the region.
The news of Sububu’s death sparked widespread joy and celebration throughout the affected states. People took to the streets, expressing their relief and gratitude for the end of the reign of terror.
Videos emerged of villagers who had once been held captive by Sububu’s gang jubilating and singing victory songs. Many identified the bullet-ridden body of Halidu, another notorious bandit who had terrorized the region.
President Bola Tinubu and governors from the Northern states commended the Nigerian Armed Forces for their valor and precision in taking down the bandit kingpins. Tinubu described the success as proof of the country’s security operatives’ ability to ensure peace and security.
Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State expressed his immense joy, highlighting Sububu’s role as a major kingpin in the region. He praised the bravery of the 26 soldiers who participated in the operation.
While the soldiers’ bravery was widely acknowledged, the Chief of Defence Staff’s reward of N1 million was met with criticism. Many Nigerians felt that the sum was inadequate compared to the magnitude of their sacrifice.
Security expert Bulama Bukarti argued that the soldiers deserved national awards and a more substantial financial reward. He called on Nigerians to donate to a fundraiser to show their appreciation.
In response to the public outcry, the hosts of a popular Facebook show, Fashin Baki, launched a fundraiser to support the soldiers. The initiative received overwhelming support from Nigerians, who praised the soldiers’ bravery and selflessness.
The killing of Halilu Sububu represents a significant victory in the fight against terrorism and banditry in Nigeria. While the road ahead may be challenging, the recent success has instilled hope and renewed determination in the affected regions.
