BY JULIET EKWENUGO
Kaduna
The Southern Kaduna People’s Union (SOKAPU) has raised fresh concerns over renewed attacks across communities in Southern Kaduna, warning that the resurgence of violence signals a troubling setback in efforts to restore peace in the area.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the National President of SOKAPU, Engr. Tabara Samuel Kato, said the spate of attacks, including the recent killing of a former Chairman of Kajuru Local Government Area, Hon. Ibrahim Gajere, points to a growing relapse into insecurity.
Gajere was reportedly killed on February 16, 2026, when bandits attacked a burial convoy in Dogon Noma community, Maro Ward of Kajuru LGA, an incident the group described as shocking and unacceptable.
According to SOKAPU, the killing underscores the increasing boldness of armed groups and the vulnerability of communities despite ongoing security operations.
“It is shocking that despite ongoing efforts to tackle terror-banditry, the gains earlier recorded are being steadily eroded”.
The group extended its condolences to the family of the deceased, the Kajuru community and the people of Southern Kaduna, describing the loss as painful and devastating.
While acknowledging efforts by the federal and Kaduna State governments, SOKAPU called for a radical shift in security strategy, urging authorities to adopt more proactive and intelligence-driven measures to address the worsening situation.
The union also expressed concern over alleged lapses within the security system, referencing remarks by former Kaduna State governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, on possible compromise of security intelligence at high levels.
“Obviously, there is more than meets the eye in the persistent attacks ravaging Southern Kaduna and the state at large”.
SOKAPU stressed that beyond commendations, there is an urgent need for security agencies to intensify efforts to protect lives and restore confidence in affected communities.
The group warned that continued attacks without decisive action could embolden criminal elements and deepen insecurity in the region.
It called on all stakeholders to work collectively towards ending the cycle of violence, insisting that the protection of lives and property must remain the government’s top priority.
