Fidelia Soriwei, Abuja
A few days after the disturbing death of former Defence Spokesman, Gen Rabe Abubakar, in the hands of bandits in the state, the Katsina State Government has announced a new round of security measures targeting banditry and kidnapping, including a statewide ban on the sale, purchase, transportation and storage of petroleum products in jerrycans.
Sources said the retired senior military officer and his wife were traveling through Matazu Local Government Area on March 30, 2026, when their vehicle was ambushed by heavily armed gunmen.
The directives were contained in an Executive Order issued by Governor Dikko Radda after an emergency security meeting with security agencies, traditional rulers and other stakeholders.
This was contained in a statement released on Tuesday by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Ibrahim Mohammed.
The government said the measures were designed to disrupt the logistics and communication networks allegedly used by criminal groups operating in parts of the state.
“As part of the Executive Order, the sale, purchase, transportation and storage of petroleum products in jerrycans have been banned across Katsina State with immediate effect. The measure is designed to prevent the diversion of fuel supplies to criminal elements operating in remote locations,” the statement said.
The order also directed the immediate closure of all Point of Sale (POS) businesses and commercial phone-charging centres in Matazu and Musawa Local Government Areas.
“The Governor also approved the immediate closure of all Point of Sale (POS) businesses and commercial phone-charging points in Matazu and Musawa Local Government Areas. Security assessments have shown that these facilities are being exploited by criminal networks to facilitate their activities,” the statement added.
In a further restriction, motorcycle operations have been prohibited throughout Matazu and Musawa LGAs.
“In addition, the use of motorcycles has been banned throughout Matazu and Musawa Local Government Areas. The restriction is intended to disrupt the movement and operational activities of bandits and kidnappers who often rely on motorcycles for transportation,” the government stated.
Radda assured residents that his administration would continue working closely with security agencies to restore peace and protect lives and property across the state.
He also urged residents to support ongoing security efforts by complying with the new directives and providing useful information to relevant authorities.
The government warned that anyone found violating the restrictions would face sanctions, stressing its commitment to taking all lawful measures necessary to improve security and safeguard communities across Katsina State.
