By Idris Salisu
Gusau
The Zamfara State government in collaboration with oil marketers (major and independent oil marketers) has vowed to close all channels that supply armed bandits fuel which they use in carrying out their criminal activities in the state.
During a meeting with the representatives of the oil marketers yesterday, the Zamfara State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Bello Dankande Gamji, said that the idea was informed by the increasing rate of banditry in the state.
Dankande condemned the idea of buying fuel in jerry can, lamenting that it was the major means the bandits get their supply in the state.
He reiterated the governor Yari-led administration’s concern on lingering insecurity, while appealing for immediate stoppage of the exercise (selling fuel in cans).
“I am directed by Governor Abdulaziz Yari Abubakar to invite you being stakeholders in oil marketing, to seek for your unreserved cooperation in ensuring that sale of fuel in jerry cans is stopped with immediate effect to end criminal activities embarked upon by bandits in the state”, said Dankande.
He further assured that the state government would soon blockade all routes the armed bandits use in attacking communities across the state which led to the loss of lives and property.
Responding, the state Chairman of IPMAN and representative of Independent Marketers, Alhaji Surajo Yahaya Kamba, said that his union has never encouraged sales of fuel in any container apart from operating vehicles and or motorcycles, adding, “The rules and regulations of our great union had in strong terms condemned purchase of fuel with jerry cans”.
Also, a representative of Major marketers, Alhaji Abba Oando, assured total compliance, saying, “We would do our possible best to make sure the fights against armed banditry, kidnappings and cattle rustling embarked by the federal and state governments are succeeded. We would ensure to give our best of contribution to stop all routes being used in supplying fuel to bandits in the state.”
