The Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, has directed security personnel to take immediate action against armed bandits and terrorists, warning that operatives who fail to engage criminals under the pretext of waiting for instructions would be regarded as collaborators.
The minister gave the directive on Wednesday in Sokoto during the inauguration of 62 operational vehicles and other security equipment valued at ₦27.127 billion, acquired by the Sokoto State Government to strengthen security operations.
Addressing security personnel at the event, Musa urged them not to hesitate when confronting criminal elements.
“Once you are deployed, do not wait for any order from anybody to shoot any bandit or any terrorist.”
He issued a stern warning to officers who refuse to act against armed criminals.
“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 Defence Minister described the procurement of the vehicles and equipment as a major investment in the state’s security architecture and commended Governor Ahmed Aliyu for providing continuous support to security agencies.
“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.”
Musa, who referred to himself as “a proud son of Sokoto,” said the state’s relative peace was the result of cooperation between the government, security agencies and residents.
He added that the newly acquired armoured vehicles and tactical equipment would improve mobility, intelligence gathering and force protection in the ongoing fight against banditry, kidnapping and terrorism.
The minister, however, cautioned security personnel against misusing or neglecting the equipment.
“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 also reminded officers to remain disciplined and professional while carrying out their duties.
“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.”
Earlier, Governor Ahmed Aliyu said the latest security intervention was part of his administration’s commitment to tackling insecurity across the state.
According to him, the government procured bulletproof vehicles, Buffalo Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs), 320 motorcycles, 3,200 security gadgets, 2,000 bulletproof helmets and protective vests, 200 night-vision goggles, thermal devices and other operational 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.”
Aliyu disclosed that his administration had already spent more than ₦36 billion on security-related projects, including the provision of operational vehicles, motorcycles, barracks for military and police personnel, the establishment of the Sokoto State Community Guard Corps and support for the Nigerian Air Force Base.
He also revealed that a bill proposing tougher penalties for individuals who provide information or assistance to bandits had been forwarded to the State House of Assembly.
“The bill is currently before the State House of Assembly and once it is passed, we will sign it without any further delay.”
The governor further announced plans to establish a Command and Control Centre to improve surveillance and coordination of security operations across Sokoto State.
He appealed to residents to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible intelligence, stressing that lasting peace can only be achieved through collective efforts.
“Security is a collective responsibility and together we shall overcome every security challenge confronting our state.”