🔥 Outrage in the North! Local Hunter Who Helped Security Agencies Fight Bandits Now Faces 45-Year Jail Term — Youth Leaders Demand Justice
FrontNaija News – A shocking wave of anger and disbelief is sweeping across northern communities after the arrest and prosecution of a well-known local hunter who has been instrumental in supporting security agencies in the fight against bandits and criminal gangs.
According to community sources, the hunter — whose identity is being withheld for legal reasons — has reportedly been slammed with charges that could attract up to 45 years imprisonment, despite years of risking his life to protect rural settlements, escort farmers, and assist security operatives during major anti-banditry operations.
A Hero Turned Into a Suspect?
Residents describe him as one of the most trusted local security volunteers who often worked closely with police, vigilante groups, and other security formations in the region. His arrest has therefore raised more questions than answers.
Youth leaders, traditional stakeholders, and civil society groups across the North are calling his prosecution a “gross injustice”, insisting that the hunter played a critical role in intelligence gathering, tracking bandits through the forests, and preventing several deadly attacks.
Youth Leaders Speak: “This Is a Betrayal”
Prominent youth leaders have condemned the development, accusing authorities of turning against those who stepped forward when the nation needed them most.
One youth spokesperson stated:
> “How can a man who dedicated his life to defending our communities be treated like a criminal? If this continues, who will ever volunteer to assist security agencies again?”
They warned that the case could discourage thousands of local hunters and vigilante members who have been supporting government efforts to restore safety in remote communities.
Communities Fear Rising Insecurity
With the hunter now behind bars, locals fear that bandits may take advantage of the situation. Residents say the forest routes he once secured are now vulnerable, and farmers are becoming afraid to return to their farmlands.
Calls for Government Intervention
Human rights advocates and northern youth associations are calling on the Federal Government, state authorities, and security agencies to immediately review the case.
They demand:
A transparent investigation into the charges
Protection for local security volunteers
Clear guidelines for collaboration between communities and formal security structures
Immediate legal support for the detained hunter
“We Won’t Keep Quiet” — Northern Youth Coalition
In a joint statement, a coalition of northern youth organizations vowed to continue pushing until justice is served.
> “This man deserves commendation, not condemnation. The government must not abandon those who risk their lives for national safety,” the statement read.
A Nation Watches Closely
As Nigerians continue to follow the case with growing concern, analysts say the outcome could redefine community-driven security participation across the country.
For now, northern youths insist they will keep raising their voices until the hunter receives a fair hearing — and potentially, the freedom they believe he rightly deserves.
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