DG NIPSS, Omotayo, supports negotiations with bandits, terrorists

Ayo Omotayo, Director General of the National Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies, supports negotiations with bandits and terrorists if it means keeping Nigerians safe.

He said this in an interview with Arise News on Wednesday where he discussed Nigeria’s governance and security.

According to him, the government must seek all means to protect its citizens and assets, stating that negotiating with those who kill Nigerians is “acceptable, if it leads to safety”.

He emphasized that the government’s primary responsibility is to safeguard its people and assets, and if negotiations succeed in achieving that goal, then this is a welcome step.

Regarding whether a pragmatic approach would be for the federation to negotiate with armed groups, the researcher said:

READ ALSO: NIPSS DG, Omotayo, supports negotiations with bandits, terrorists

“The main objective of the government is to secure the people and their assets. A responsible government will do everything it can to ensure protection. Negotiating with Gumi or other powers does not mean weakness, it is a good step if it leads to securing the people,” he said.

He stated that security had improved and, with the right support, troops could handle the recent attacks.

“Despite the recent escalation, we previously experienced peace. Anyone who is alert knows where this resurgence is coming from. Our security forces will handle it by providing the necessary support. Negotiating with those who kill our citizens is acceptable if it leads to safety.”

However, not everyone agrees with this approach. Defense Minister Christopher Musa has warned against negotiating with bandits and terrorists, saying they only use dialogue as a deceptive tactic to regroup and launch new attacks.