RismadarVoice Reporters, April 23, 2026
Residents of the Mansur community in Alkeleri Local Government Area of Bauchi State have begun returning to their homes after months of displacement, following successful military operations that cleared terrorists from the area.
The return, which took place on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, was marked by widespread celebration as families trooped back to reclaim their ancestral homes after fleeing a deadly menace on February 26, 2026, when armed terrorists overran the village.
For nearly two months, the community remained deserted, with homes abandoned and farmlands left uncultivated.
The restoration of peace in the area is attributed to coordinated military offensives under Operation BUGUN KARKANDA III, directed by Army Headquarters and executed by the 33 Artillery Brigade. The operation followed an earlier mission, Operation WUTAN DAJI, aimed at dislodging terrorists from their strongholds.
Military authorities said the operations successfully cleared insurgents from several notorious hideouts, including Dajin Madam Forest in Plateau State and Kumbodoro Forest in Taraba State. Other areas secured include Yankari Game Reserve, Bogwas and Rimi in Bauchi State, as well as Odere Forest, Shirnagol, Wanka, and Kukarlwa in Plateau State. Kumbodoro town and Angwan Jauro Sule in Taraba State were also brought under control.
With the clearance phase completed, troops have transitioned to consolidation efforts, which involve handing over secured communities to relevant security agencies and government institutions to ensure sustained peace and facilitate the return of displaced persons.
Scenes in Mansur on Wednesday reflected relief and renewed hope, as men, women, and children sang and danced upon their return. Many residents were seen assessing their homes and clearing overgrown surroundings.
Community leaders praised the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, for what they described as a timely and decisive intervention, noting that the return of residents signals a fresh start for the community.
For many villagers, the presence of security personnel now represents safety and reassurance, as normal life gradually resumes in the once-deserted settlement.
