Shoot terrorists on sight, don’t wait for orders, Defense Minister tells troops

Defense Minister, General Christopher Musa (retd.), has directed military personnel and other security officials to take immediate action against terrorists and armed bandits without waiting for permission from superior officers, and warned that any agency that fails to deal with criminals under the guise of waiting for orders will be deemed to be working with them.

Musa gave the directive on Wednesday in Sokoto during the inauguration of 62 operational vehicles and other security assets worth ₦27.127 billion, purchased by the Sokoto State Government to enhance ongoing security operations.

While addressing security personnel at the event, the minister urged them to act decisively whenever they encounter terrorists or bandits.

“Once you are deployed, do not wait for orders from anyone to shoot any bandits or terrorists,” the minister said.

He warned that hesitation in dealing with criminal elements would not be tolerated.

“Whoever refuses to shoot or kill any bandit or terrorist in the name of waiting for orders, we will treat you like a bandit.”

Commending the Sokoto State Government for investing heavily in the security sector, Musa described the procurement of tactical vehicles and equipment as evidence of visionary leadership and commitment to protecting lives and property.

“This event is not just an introduction of security assets. It is a demonstration of strategic leadership, responsible governance and our collective resolve to strengthen the security architecture of Sokoto State and Nigeria as a whole,” he said.

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Describing himself as a “proud son of Sokoto,” the minister noted that the country is relatively peaceful due to close cooperation between the government, security agencies and members of the public.

He expressed confidence that the newly commissioned armored vehicles and other operational equipment will significantly improve troop mobility, intelligence gathering and overall effectiveness of security operations against banditry, kidnapping and terrorism.

However, Musa warned his personnel against misuse or poor maintenance of the newly acquired assets.

“This equipment costs billions of naira. We don’t want to hand it over and then you throw it away or mishandle it. The equipment must be fit for the purpose for which it was procured,” he said.

While encouraging security forces to remain firm in the fight against crime, the minister reminded them that their responsibility is to protect law-abiding citizens and not to intimidate or exploit them.

“You must not go there and blackmail or harass the people. You are there to protect them and cooperate with them to eradicate bandits and terrorists operating in your territory,” he added.

Earlier, Governor Ahmed Aliyu said this latest security investment was part of his administration’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the state’s capacity to tackle insecurity since taking office.

According to the Governor, the procurement includes bulletproof vehicles, Buffalo Armored Personnel Carriers (APC), 320 motorbikes, 3,200 units of security equipment, 2,000 helmets and bulletproof vests, 200 night vision goggles, thermal imaging equipment and other operational equipment.

“In all, we distributed the 62 vehicles and security equipment mentioned above. These vehicles and security equipment cost the Sokoto State Government ₦27.127 billion,” Aliyu said.

He revealed that his administration had invested over ₦36 billion in security initiatives, including the purchase of operational vehicles and motorbikes, construction of military and police barracks, establishment of the Sokoto State Community Ranger Corps and support for the Nigerian Air Force Base in the state.

The governor also revealed that a bill proposing tougher penalties for individuals who provide information or assistance to bandits has been sent to the Sokoto State House of Assembly.

“The bill is currently being submitted to the State House of Assembly and once it is passed, we will sign it without further delay,” he said.

Aliyu further announced that the government has approved the establishment of a Command and Control Center aimed at enhancing surveillance, intelligence sharing and coordination of security operations across the state.

He appealed to citizens to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible intelligence, and emphasized that the fight against banditry requires the active participation of all stakeholders.

“Security is a shared responsibility and together we will overcome every security challenge facing our country,” said the governor.