The Digest:
Defence Minister Christopher Musa has issued a firm directive to state governments, warning them against entering into any negotiated peace agreements with bandits and reaffirming the Federal Government’s position that engagement only emboldens criminal networks. In an interview with BBC Hausa, Musa emphasized that security must be restored through sustained military pressure and intelligence, not through dialogue with armed groups.
Key Points:
- Defence Minister Christopher Musa warned state governments against negotiating peace deals with bandits.
- He stated such agreements are dangerous, counter-productive, and threaten national security.
- Musa emphasized the Federal Government’s stance: no settlements, ransom payments, or legitimization of armed groups.
- He urged governors to align with the federal security strategy involving military pressure and intelligence operations.
- The warning follows reports of state-level peace initiatives and planned releases of suspected bandits.
- Musa called on citizens to stop providing bandits with food, money, or information.
- The statement references Katsina State’s reported move to release about 70 suspected bandits.
Sources: Daily Post Nigeria, BBC Hausa
