Christopher Musa to troops: Kill bandits, terrorists on sight, don’t wait for orders
Christopher Musa, minister of defence, has directed security personnel to immediately engage and neutralise bandits and terrorists upon deployment, warning that operatives who delay action while waiting for approval would be treated as collaborators.
Musa spoke in Sokoto on Wednesday during the inauguration of 62 operational vehicles and security equipment valued at N27.1 billion, procured by the Sokoto state government to strengthen security operations.
The minister said troops should not hesitate to confront bandits and terrorists in the course of their operations.
“Once you are deployed, do not wait for any order from anybody to shoot any bandit or any terrorist,” he said.
“I want to make that very loud and clear. 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.”
Musa also urged personnel to ensure the proper maintenance of the newly acquired operational vehicles and equipment.
He noted that the assets, which cost billions of naira, represented a significant investment in improving security and should be handled responsibly.
“It is important for those who will handle this equipment. This equipment cost billions of naira that could have been used for other purposes but have been dedicated to this,” he said.
“So, I want to charge you that you must maintain this equipment very well. We will come after a year to see how this equipment is doing.”
The defence minister said the investment underscores the commitment of the Sokoto state government to strengthening security operations and supporting security agencies in tackling banditry and terrorism.
