Don’t wait for instructions, eliminate terrorists immediately — Defence Minister to Troops
By Taiwo Scholarstica
The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (retd.), has ordered security personnels across the country to take swift action against armed bandits and terrorists, warning that officers who fail to engage criminals under the excuse of awaiting instructions would be regarded as collaborators.
Musa gave the directive on Wednesday in Sokoto State during the commissioning of 62 operational vehicles and other security equipment valued at ₦27.127 billion. The assets were procured by the Sokoto State Government to boost security operations and strengthen the fight against insecurity.
“Once you are deployed, do not wait for any order from anybody to shoot any bandit or any terrorist.”
“Anybody who refuses to shoot or kill any bandit or terrorist in the name of waiting for an order, we will treat you like a bandit,” the Minister declared.
The Defence Minister further described the investment as a clear demonstration of responsible leadership and commended Governor Ahmed Aliyu for his continued support to security agencies through the provision of operational logistics and equipment.
“This event is not merely the unveiling of security assets. It is a demonstration of strategic leadership, responsible governance and our collective determination to strengthen the security architecture of Sokoto State and Nigeria as a whole,” he said.
Musa, who referred to himself as a proud son of Sokoto, stated that the state has remained relatively peaceful because of the close cooperation between the government, security agencies and members of the public.
He explained that the newly acquired armoured vehicles and tactical equipment would improve operational mobility, intelligence gathering and personnel protection in ongoing efforts to tackle banditry, terrorism and kidnapping.
The minister also cautioned security operatives to properly maintain the equipment, stressing that the assets were purchased with significant public funds and should be used effectively.
“This equipment costs billions of naira. We don’t want to hand them over and then you throw them away or mishandle them. They must serve the purpose for which they were procured,” he said.
He further urged officers to carry out their responsibilities professionally, reminding them that their primary duty is to safeguard law-abiding citizens while dealing decisively with criminal elements.
“You are not to go there and extort or harass the people. You are there to protect them and work with them to eliminate bandits and terrorists operating within your area,” he added.
Earlier, Governor Ahmed Aliyu said the latest procurement was part of his administration’s sustained efforts to improve security across the state since assuming office.
According to the governor, the government purchased bulletproof vehicles, Buffalo Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs), 320 motorcycles, 3,200 security gadgets, 2,000 bulletproof helmets and vests, 200 night-vision goggles, thermal devices and other tactical equipment.
“In all, we are distributing 62 vehicles and the security equipment highlighted above. These vehicles and security equipment cost the Sokoto State Government ₦27.127 billion,” the governor said.
Aliyu disclosed that his administration had already invested more than ₦36 billion in security-related projects, including the procurement of operational vehicles and motorcycles, construction of military and police barracks, establishment of the Sokoto State Community Guard Corps and support for the Nigerian Air Force Base in the state.
The governor also announced that a bill proposing tougher penalties for individuals who provide information or support to bandits had been transmitted to the State House of Assembly for consideration.
“The bill is currently before the State House of Assembly and once it is passed, we will sign it without any further delay,” he said.
He added that the state government had approved the establishment of a Command and Control Centre to strengthen surveillance and improve coordination among security agencies.
Aliyu appealed to residents to continue sharing credible intelligence with security agencies, stressing that lasting success against banditry can only be achieved through collective effort.
“Security is a collective responsibility and together we shall overcome every security challenge confronting our state,” he said.