THE Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, has directed security personnel to take immediate action against terrorists and armed bandits, warning that operatives who fail to engage criminals under the pretext of awaiting orders will be regarded as collaborators.
Musa gave the directive today during the commissioning of 62 operational vehicles and security equipment valued at ₦27.127 billion, acquired by the Sokoto State Government to enhance security operations across the state.
Addressing security personnel, the minister stressed that officers deployed to combat insecurity must not hesitate to neutralise terrorists or bandits whenever necessary.
He warned that anyone who refuses to act because they are waiting for instructions would be treated as an accomplice of the criminals.
He described the security investment as a reflection of responsible leadership and commended Ahmed Aliyu for consistently supporting security agencies with operational logistics and equipment.
According to Musa, the newly commissioned armoured vehicles and tactical equipment will improve mobility, intelligence gathering and force protection in ongoing efforts to tackle banditry, terrorism and kidnapping.
He also urged security agencies to properly maintain the equipment, noting that the assets were procured at significant cost and should be used effectively.
The minister further reminded officers to remain professional in carrying out their duties, urging them to protect innocent residents while taking decisive action against criminal elements.
He cautioned personnel against harassing or extorting members of the public, stressing that their primary responsibility is to safeguard lives and work closely with communities to eliminate insecurity.
Speaking earlier, Governor Aliyu had stated that the latest procurement forms part of his administration’s continued investment in strengthening security since assuming office.
He notes that the state government acquired bulletproof vehicles, Buffalo Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs), 320 motorcycles, 3,200 security gadgets, 2,000 bulletproof helmets and vests, 200 night-vision goggles, thermal devices and other tactical equipment.
The governor said a total of 62 vehicles and the listed security assets, worth ₦27.127 billion, are being distributed to security agencies.
He added that the state had previously spent more than ₦36 billion on security interventions, including operational vehicles, motorcycles, military and police barracks, the establishment of the Sokoto State Community Guard Corps, and support for the Nigerian Air Force Base.
Aliyu also revealed that his administration has forwarded a bill to the State House of Assembly seeking tougher penalties for informants who assist bandits. He expressed confidence that the bill would be signed into law once passed.
The governor further announced plans to establish a Command and Control Centre to strengthen surveillance and improve coordination of security operations across the state.
He appealed to residents to continue providing credible intelligence to security agencies, maintaining that defeating banditry requires the collective efforts of both the government and the public.
