Insecurity: Shoot Bandits on Sight, Don’t Wait for Orders — Defence Minister Tells Troops

The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa, has directed military personnel engaged in counterinsurgency and anti banditry operations to immediately neutralise terrorists and bandits without waiting for further approval from superior officers.

Musa issued the directive on Wednesday during the commissioning of 62 operational vehicles and other security equipment valued at N27.1 billion procured by the Sokoto State Government to strengthen security operations across the state.

Addressing troops and other security personnel, the Defence Minister said the worsening security situation requires swift operational decisions, stressing that hesitation could undermine efforts to restore peace in affected communities.

He warned that any security operative who refuses to engage terrorists or bandits while waiting for additional orders would be viewed as aiding criminal elements and treated accordingly.

According to him, troops deployed to conflict areas already possess the authority and responsibility to confront armed criminals immediately whenever the need arises during operations.

The minister said the Federal Government remains committed to providing security agencies with the resources needed to combat insecurity, noting that collaboration between the Federal Government and state governments remains essential to addressing security challenges.

He also commended the Sokoto State Government for investing heavily in operational logistics, describing the newly acquired vehicles and equipment as critical assets that would improve mobility, surveillance and response capacity for security agencies.

Musa urged personnel assigned to operate the equipment to ensure proper maintenance, reminding them that the assets were purchased with public funds that could have been allocated to other developmental priorities.

He disclosed that the condition of the equipment would be reviewed after one year to determine whether they had been properly maintained and effectively utilised in security operations.

The Defence Minister further encouraged security personnel to remain disciplined, professional and committed to protecting lives and property while intensifying efforts to eliminate criminal networks operating across the country.

The procurement of the operational vehicles forms part of Sokoto State’s broader strategy to strengthen security collaboration with federal agencies amid persistent attacks by armed bandits in parts of the state.

Authorities expressed optimism that the deployment of the new equipment, alongside the minister’s operational directives, would enhance ongoing military operations and improve efforts to restore lasting peace and security in Sokoto State and neighbouring communities affected by criminal activities.