According to a report by The Sun News, on Sunday, March 29, 2026, Mujahid Dokubo-Asari revealed the intense realities of fighting insecurity in Nigeria, particularly in the northern states.
The former leader of the Niger Delta People’s Volunteer Force has been actively involved in operations against armed groups in Zamfara, Niger, and other states, working closely with local and federal security agencies.
He said, “We are in Zamfara. We were the first people in 14 years to enter the camp of Turji. His second in command died, so many people died; we also lost men. We are in Niger.”
This powerful statement shows the scale of the confrontations and the risks faced by those combating bandits and militants.
According to Dokubo-Asari, entering such camps after more than a decade demonstrates both the strength of these groups and the determination of local forces to stop them.
He highlighted that while his team operates on the ground, they face significant challenges, including limited government support and delayed payments for services rendered.
Despite these difficulties, local teams continue to take the lead in security operations, often achieving results that foreign contractors have struggled to deliver.
Dokubo-Asari also pointed out that continuous pressure on criminal camps is crucial to prevent regrouping and further attacks.
He stressed that operations must be sustained and coordinated, combining the expertise of local operatives with official security measures.
His work has extended beyond Zamfara and Niger, reflecting a long-term commitment to stabilising regions plagued by insecurity.
Furthermore, Dokubo-Asari criticised the overreliance on foreign security firms, noting that local knowledge and experience are often more effective in navigating the terrain and understanding the behaviour of criminals.
His account underscores the need for the government to recognise and support local efforts, as these teams play a crucial role in mitigating insecurity.
The revelations from Dokubo-Asari provide a rare glimpse into the dangerous reality of fighting insurgency in northern Nigeria.
His firsthand experiences demonstrate the risks, sacrifices, and strategic importance of local forces in the ongoing battle against banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism.