Assessing Security Threats Posed by Ruma/kukar Jangarai Forest Reserve to Batsari Lga Katsina State, Nigeria

Abstract

There are several know cases of forests serving as camping sites for rebel or insurgents groups that launch attacks on government forces or the local people. In the continent of Africa not only forests but even forest reserves and national parks were strong holds of rebels, insurgents or other groups engage in launching attacks. This paper assesses the security threats posed by Ruma/Kukar Jangarai forest reserve to Batsari local government area Katsina State. Data for the study were generated from field visits, field observation and interview with the local people some of who are affected by the insecurity situation. The results indicated five main threats posed by the forest reserve and the people responsible for creating the threats. The results also indicate that the attacks were on weekly basis and the valuables lost include human lives, money in cash, cattle, women and girls. There are however responses from the security agents and the local people towards overcoming the threats which have not effective towards eliminating the threats. It is therefore recommended urgent and decisive measures should be taken by the new government in Katsina State towards overcoming the threats posed by the forest reserve to Batsari local government area.