Insecurity

By Dr Umar Jibrilu Gwandu

It is common knowledge that the world is experiencing numerous challenges. The Global Peace Index Report of 2025 says that the world has become less peaceful for the 13th time in the last 17 years: more conflicts, more militarisation, and fewer resources for peacebuilding. 

Similarly, the 2025 report by the Institute for Economic and Peace says global peace is at its lowest level and that there are now over 122 million people who have been forcibly displaced due to conflicts globally.

In Nigeria, insecurity and economic hardship dominate public discourse. Figures from the Nigerian National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) revealed that 614,937 Nigerians were killed and 2,235,954 others were kidnapped nationwide within a single year in 2024.

Analysts confirmed that the number of people killed in Nigeria in 2024 was higher than the death toll in Israel’s war on Gaza, where over 40,000 had died. The figure is far more than the killings from the long-running Russian war on Ukraine, where 57,500 had been massacred as of December 2024

According to the World Food Programme’s August 2026 Country Briefing, an estimated 36.2 million people in Nigeria are acutely food insecure, with 2.1 million facing emergency levels of food insecurity. The 2022 NBS reports claimed that 133 million people living in Nigeria are multidimensionally poor. 

This situation calls for a national prayer to seek divine intervention to complement the efforts of Governments at the state and Federal levels, which have been launching noble initiatives, projects, and programmes to end lingering insecurity and improve the living conditions of Nigerians.

The Glorious Qur’an made it abundantly clear that many afflictions and tribulations are caused by the wrongdoings committed by men, as a test that, peradventure, men may turn to God, who promised them succour afterwards. “Chaos appears in the land and the sea because of the evil deeds which people’s hands have earned, in order to make them taste the flavour of some of their misdeeds – in order that they may come back” (Qur’an 30:41).

Muslims believe that prayer has the spiritual power to overcome compounding and complex situations. “Your Lord has said, ‘Pray to Me, for I shall answer your prayers'” (Qur’an 40:60). For instance, with a “single prayer”, Prophet Moses (A.S.) got comfort, food, accommodation, a job and thereafter a family (Qur’an 28:24 – 27). 

Allah has always assured the believers that “when My servants ask you about Me, then surely I am near: I answer the prayer of the suppliant when he prays to Me. So, let them respond to My call, and believe and trust in Me, so that they may be guided.” (Qur’an 2:186). 

To strengthen believers in the efficacy of prayer, the glorious Qur’an is replete with stories of Prophets like Zakariya, Ayyub, Yunus (A.S.), among others, who prayed for certain issues and had their prayers answered (Q21:83-90).

As a demonstration of patriotism embodied in spirituality and faithfulness, the Nigerian Supreme Council of Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), under the leadership of the President General and the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, organised a national prayer for peace, unity and prosperity of our dear country, Nigeria.

The prayer session, preceded by the recitation of the entire Glorious Qur’an, was attended by Chief Imams of the Central Mosques from 36 states of the Federation, representatives of Islamic Organisations in Nigeria, and Muslim leaders from various spheres of life.

The event saw patriotic believers eschewing differences, stripping off their ranks and status, converging on one of the sacred places in the land in awe of God with reverence, praying to God, the Creator of all creation, to grant “our one request: help us to build a nation where no man is oppressed, and so with peace and plenty”

One of the Qur’an’s most powerful lessons is that faith is not passive. Islam does not teach believers to sit and wait without effort. Rather, it teaches Muslims to pray sincerely and act decisively. The central message is that as one raises hands in prayer, one is equally expected to roll up their sleeves and act.

Consider the example of Maryam (Mary) in Qur’an 19:25. In her moment of pain and distress, Allah tells her to shake the trunk of a palm tree. A weak woman, exhausted, shaking a strong tree—this action alone could not bring down dates. Yet Allah wanted to teach believers: make the effort, even when it seems small, and He will bring the result.

Likewise, when Musa (Moses) stood before the sea with danger behind him, Allah commanded him in Qur’an 26:63 to strike the sea with his staff. The sea did not part until Musa acted. Again, the lesson is clear: divine help comes alongside human effort.

Allah reminds us in Qur’an 13:11: “Indeed, Allah will not change the condition of a people until they change what is in themselves.” 

This is a call to responsibility. If we seek relief from hardship, we must turn to Allah with du‘a, while also striving to improve our condition.

The story of Nuh (Noah) reinforces the principle of pairing prayer with concrete and decisive action. In Qur’an 11:37, Prophet Nuh (A.S.) was commanded to build an ark long before any visible sign of the flood.

Despite ridicule from his people, he continued his work. His survival, and that of the believers with him, came not merely from prayer, but from obedient and sustained effort.

The Qur’an reassures believers in Qur’an 94:5-6 that “with hardship comes ease.” However, that ease is often reached through a combination of spiritual devotion, patience, and purposeful action.

Equally compelling was the account of Ayyub (Job), a symbol of patience in suffering. After enduring prolonged illness, he turned to Allah in supplication. Yet his healing was linked to action: in Qur’an 38:42, he was told to strike the ground with his foot, whereupon a spring emerged. The narrative highlights that even divine healing may come through human participation.

Beyond individual stories, the Qur’an lays down general principles. In Qur’an 13:11, it states: “Indeed, Allah will not change the condition of a people until they change what is in themselves.” This verse underscores personal and collective responsibility—change requires initiative.

Other prophetic examples expand this theme. Yusuf (Joseph) advised on long-term economic planning during a coming famine (Qur’an 12:47), while Dhul-Qarnayn organised the construction of a protective barrier with collective effort (Qur’an 18:95). Even military discipline is emphasised in the story of Talut (Saul), where restraint and obedience determine success (Qur’an 2:249). The command is to combine reliance with preparedness. Qur’an 8:60 teaches that even with trust in Allah, believers must prepare and act.

Yes, Muslims throughout the country responded positively to the call of His Eminence, the Sultan of Sokoto and offered the National prayer for our country. What is expected is that they would equally rally behind him to implement a carefully crafted action plan, guided by his sagacity and leadership acumen, in line with divine guidance and in conformity with extant laws of the land, for a peaceful and prosperous future that posterity would be proud of.

“Keep working: Allah will behold your works and so will His Messenger and the believers;” (Q9:105).

Dr Gwandu is the National Public Relations Officer of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Gunmen have killed and beheaded the village head of Lafagu community in Bagudo Local Government Area of Kebbi State.

The Kebbi State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bashir Usman, confirmed the incident, which occurred on Sunday.

Usman said the identity of the traditional ruler had not been disclosed, adding that some suspects had been arrested in connection with the killing.

“Yes, it is true the village head was killed in Lafagu under Bagudo Local Government. We have made some arrests in respect of the incident and will provide details later,” the PPRO said.

However, preliminary findings cited by PUNCH suggested that the attack may have been carried out by an armed ethnic militia rather than bandits or Lakurawa insurgents.

A source, Tukur Kaoje, said Fulani, Kambarawa and Bargawa communities had lived together in the area for decades before the recent escalation of insecurity linked to allegations of cattle rustling and kidnapping.

Kaoje alleged that the reported infiltration of some communities by Lakurawa fighters led some residents of Bargawa and Kambarawa communities to accuse Fulani residents of involvement in the attacks.

He said armed groups were subsequently formed to confront the alleged threats.

Kaoje further alleged that the militia recently attacked Boya village, where he claimed scores of Fulani residents were killed.

“Yes, the village head was beheaded in Lafagu, but we are not sure whether the killers were bandits or Lakurawa. There are allegations that it was carried out by an armed ethnic militia.”

He described the situation in Lafagu and neighbouring communities as tense and called for urgent government intervention to prevent further deterioration.

He also warned that failure to address the situation could trigger a wider cycle of communal violence that may become increasingly difficult to contain.

The police have yet to establish publicly who was responsible for the killing, while investigations into the incident continue.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The security situation in Zamfara State has come under fresh scrutiny after suspected bandits reportedly abducted several Islamic clerics who attended a prayer gathering at the residence of Senator Abdul’aziz Abubakar Yari in Talata Mafara Local Government Area.

The reported abduction occurred after the clerics joined more than 2,000 Islamic scholars and imams at Yari’s residence for a special prayer session ahead of the 2027 elections.

The development was made public on Saturday evening by Northwest-based crisis reporter Bakatsine in a post on his X handle.

According to the report, some of the clerics allegedly taken away included Imam Yahuza, the First Jumma’at Imam in Dogon Madacci; Magawata Abdullahi, the Second Jumma’at Imam in Dogon Madacci; Malam Shehu Dakko; Imam Bala Fagon; and Na’ibi Tasi’u of Tungar Nagudai.

The clerics reportedly travelled from communities in Bakura and Talata Mafara Local Government Areas to participate in the gathering.

The prayer session was reportedly held to seek peace, national unity and the success of President Bola Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress, APC, ahead of the 2027 elections.

The reported incident has raised concerns over the reach of bandit groups in Zamfara, particularly because the alleged abduction occurred after a gathering at the residence of a prominent political figure.

Bakatsine described the development as disturbing and linked it to the wider security challenges confronting communities across the state.

“If people can be abducted while attending a gathering at the residence of a prominent political figure, then where exactly are ordinary citizens supposed to feel safe?” he asked.

Zamfara has continued to experience attacks and abductions attributed to armed bandit groups, with several communities facing persistent security threats.

However, the reported abduction had not received immediate official confirmation from the police or other security agencies as of the time of filing this report.

The identities of all those allegedly abducted and their current whereabouts also remained unclear.

By Uzair Adam

The Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa (retd.), has urged state governors and lawmakers to stop distributing motorcycles as palliatives, warning that some of the motorcycles eventually find their way into the hands of terrorists and bandits.

Musa gave the warning on Thursday while appearing on Channels Television’s Politics Today, where he discussed ongoing efforts to tackle terrorism and other security challenges confronting the country.

According to him, motorcycles provided to vulnerable Nigerians sometimes end up being used by terrorists to facilitate their movements and carry out attacks.

“We try to appeal to even governors to stop giving motorcycles out as palliatives. Because these motorcycles are the same ones that still end up with these terrorists,” he said.

The minister advised that where motorcycles must be distributed, authorities should consider smaller-capacity models that would be less useful to terrorists operating in difficult terrains.

“Even if you have to give, don’t give them the big capacity motorcycles; give them the small capacity ones that they won’t be able to use to run around, because that gives them leverage. They can easily enter and then disappear,” Musa said.

He also warned that motorcycles distributed by lawmakers under constituency projects and other intervention programmes could eventually be diverted to bandits and terrorists.

“Those bikes… before you know it, they’re already back to the bandits, and that’s what they’re using. So we must stop that,” he added.

Musa further disclosed that security agencies had identified illegal markets and motor parks as major channels through which terrorists transport arms and ammunition to their areas of operation.

“What we realise from experience is they establish illegal markets or illicit motor parks. They go to those motor parks; that’s where they move arms and ammunition into those areas,” he said.

The defence minister also called for greater involvement of local governments in the fight against insecurity, arguing that local authorities are better positioned to identify criminal activities within their communities.

“We must allow our local governments to work. Failure of local government is what is aggravating what we’re dealing with, and if we want a better solution, a quick fix, our local governments must work,” he said.

According to Musa, local government chairmen should regularly convene security meetings and monitor developments within their respective areas.

He also urged state and local authorities to strengthen surveillance around markets, motor parks and other locations that could be exploited to transport drugs, weapons and ammunition.

“If we’re able to make sure that we man all the markets, all the motor parks, all these areas where drugs, weapons, ammunition move, it will make it difficult for them,” the minister added.

By Muhammad Abubakar 

The reported emergence of Ibn Mohammed bin Shakau, the biological son of late Boko Haram leader Abubakar Shekau, within the ranks of the insurgent group has raised fresh concerns about the possible continuation of his father’s ideological and militant networks.

Security and conflict analyst Zagazola Makama reported that Ibn Mohammed has reportedly begun taking steps into the Boko Haram insurgency, potentially following the path of his father, one of the most notorious figures associated with the group’s violent campaign in Nigeria’s North-East.

The report, however, does not independently establish the extent of Ibn Mohammed’s involvement or his current position within the insurgent organisation.

Abubakar Shekau became the leader of Boko Haram following the death of the group’s founder, Mohammed Yusuf, in 2009. Under his leadership, the insurgency intensified, with Boko Haram carrying out attacks against communities, security forces, government institutions and civilian targets across north-eastern Nigeria and parts of the wider Lake Chad region.

Shekau became particularly known for his uncompromising leadership style and frequent propaganda videos in which he issued threats, claimed responsibility for attacks and denounced governments and security forces.

His leadership was also marked by growing internal divisions within the insurgency. In 2015, Boko Haram pledged allegiance to the Islamic State, leading to the emergence of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) as a major rival faction.

Shekau was killed in 2021 after a confrontation with ISWAP fighters in the Lake Chad region. His death significantly altered the balance of power among insurgent factions and further fragmented the militant landscape.

The reported involvement of his son could therefore carry symbolic significance for Boko Haram remnants and raises questions about whether family ties and the legacy of former commanders could contribute to the recruitment and mobilisation of a new generation of insurgents.

However, the significance of the development remains unclear, and further independent confirmation would be required to establish Ibn Mohammed’s role, influence and operational involvement within the group.

By Uzair Adam 

Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State has disclosed that he rejected a N300 million ransom demand made by kidnappers who abducted his brothers in 2019, insisting that paying criminals would only encourage further kidnappings.

The governor made the revelation on Thursday while speaking at the ARISE News and THISDAY Town Hall Conference in Abuja, where he also reiterated his support for the establishment of state police as part of efforts to address Nigeria’s growing security challenges.

Recounting the incident, Lawal said the abductors demanded N300 million for the release of his brothers, but he refused to negotiate or pay any ransom.

“My own brothers were kidnapped in 2019, and these criminals were demanding about N300 million. I said, ‘I’m not going to pay a dime. If you like, go and kill them.'”

He explained that despite his refusal to meet the kidnappers’ demand, his brothers were eventually freed after spending about three months in captivity.

The governor said the experience strengthened his belief that ransom payments only empower criminal groups and encourage more abductions.

“By the time we continue to pay ransom to these people, we are encouraging them to keep kidnapping more and more people,” he said.

Lawal maintained that he would never negotiate with criminals or reward them financially, regardless of the circumstances.

“I will not negotiate, and I will not pay ransom to any criminal, no matter what happens.”

The governor made the remarks while advocating the creation of state police, arguing that governors cannot be held fully accountable for security when they lack operational control over security agencies in their states.

He noted that although governors are regarded as chief security officers of their states, they have no constitutional authority to direct the operations of the police and other security agencies.

“In as much as I am being called the chief security officer of the state, I don’t have the command and control structure to determine what happens or give instructions to some of these security officers,” he said.

According to Lawal, the current arrangement places governors in a difficult position because they are blamed for insecurity despite lacking the authority to coordinate security operations.

He stressed that protecting lives and property remains the primary responsibility of every government, adding that meaningful development cannot be achieved without adequate security.

“Why is it difficult for people to understand that my primary responsibility is the protection of lives and property, and I don’t have that control? How do you hold me accountable?” he asked.

Lawal argued that establishing state police would improve accountability, as governors would have direct oversight of security operations and could be judged by residents based on their performance.

He added that state governments would also be better positioned to recruit, equip, train and fund security personnel according to their unique security needs.

The governor further observed that the Nigeria Police Force continues to face challenges such as inadequate funding, poor welfare and insufficient training, which have affected its effectiveness.

Highlighting his administration’s investment in security, Lawal disclosed that the Zamfara State Government currently finances more than 30 per cent of security operations within the state.

He said the government has procured over 500 operational vehicles for security agencies in the past three years and recently handed over 35 Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) and Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles to strengthen the fight against banditry.

Lawal also revealed that the state has acquired both surveillance and combat drones to support security operations.

“We bought drones, both surveillance drones and attack drones, to aid the security forces in fighting these criminals in their respective areas,” he said.

The governor maintained that Nigeria’s insecurity can only be effectively addressed through improved funding, better welfare, enhanced training and the deployment of modern technology, rather than negotiating or paying ransom to criminal groups.

His comments come amid renewed national debate over the establishment of state police and broader reforms aimed at improving security across the country.

By Uzair Adam 

Troops of the Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have dismantled an illegal arms manufacturing factory allegedly linked to terrorist activities in Kebbi State, arresting two suspected arms manufacturers and suppliers.

The operation was carried out by troops of Sector 2 following credible intelligence, which led security personnel to a secluded compound allegedly being used as a covert production and distribution centre for locally fabricated firearms.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the Media Information Officer of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Lt. Col. Aliyu Danja, said troops recovered five locally fabricated AK-47 rifles during a thorough search of the premises.

He described the operation, conducted in collaboration with other security agencies, as a major breakthrough in ongoing efforts to disrupt terrorist logistics and dismantle criminal networks operating across the North-West.

“The successful operation represents another major step in the ongoing campaign against the proliferation of illicit weapons, which have continued to fuel insecurity and violent activities in parts of the region,” Danja said.

He added that the suspects are currently in military custody and undergoing preliminary interrogation, while investigations are ongoing to identify and arrest other members of the syndicate, uncover its sponsors and collaborators, and dismantle the wider arms supply chain.

The Theatre Command commended the professionalism and commitment of the troops and partner security agencies involved in the operation.

It also urged residents across the North-West to remain vigilant and continue providing timely and credible intelligence, stressing that public support remains essential to sustaining security operations and eliminating criminal elements threatening peace and security in the region.

By Khalid Imam 

The Triple R Kannywood Renewed Hope Initiative, the highest body of elite Kannywood actors and other influential Arewa creatives, led by Alhaji Dauda Adamu Abdullahi Kahutu Rarara, organised a special prayer session to pray for peace, unity, and security in Nigeria on 22nd June 2026 at the Aminu Dantata Trade Fair Complex in Kano City.

Conceived by a high-powered 5-Man Committee of Special Prayer chaired by Nura Hussaini, a famous Hausa film actor, the session drew a massive turnout of notable Hausa film actors, directors, singers, scriptwriters, authors, and other creatives in the arts industry. TikTok influencers and dozens of group members were also in attendance, and all were united by their concern over Nigeria’s security situation.

The special prayers attracted enthusiastic attendees from the film and arts industry in Kano, Kaduna, Gombe, Niger, Sokoto, Borno, and other Northern regions. Starting around 11 am, members recited the Holy Qur’an. A big cow and a large ram were slaughtered, and the meat was shared among the public. The act sought Allah’s intervention for lasting peace and security, especially in troubled areas. 

Prayers were also faithfully offered for Almighty Allah to completely crush all those directly or indirectly profiting from the killing of innocent lives, especially bandits and other troublemakers. Members also prayed, asking God to bring a permanent end to terrorism, armed robbery, kidnapping, and every form of insecurity plaguing Nigeria, particularly the North.

To ensure a well-coordinated and sustained approach, the initiative is committed to establishing the said powerful standing committee under the chairmanship of Nura Hussaini, with Sharu Nagudu serving as Vice Chairman. All members of the Triple R Kannywood for Renewed Hope Initiative are automatic and committed members, working collectively to hold continuous prayers for peace, unity, security, and Nigeria’s overall development.

At the heart of the prayers was a collective plea for Allah’s immediate intervention in ending the violence still disrupting communities across Nigeria. The group also prayed for lasting peace, security, and stability across Nigeria, for unity, love, and mutual understanding among all citizens, and for wisdom and sound guidance for the country’s political leadership at the national and state levels as they strive harder to steer the nation toward achieving peace and socioeconomic transformation.

Speaking to journalists at the venue of the special prayers and sacrifices, Rarara, a preeminent Hausa song artist and leader of the converged creative minds under the Triple R Kannywood Renewed Hope Initiative, said, “The initiative recognises the daunting challenges security agents face daily in tackling insecurity across the country. This prayer session was organised to complement their efforts by seeking Allah’s intervention and urging the general public to join in praying for the success of the government and security personnel in combating this persistent menace.”

Khalid Imam, a multiple award-winning bilingual author based in Kano, attended the special prayer session and crafted this report.

By Munir Aliyu Kabuga

It is indeed disheartening, though sadly not surprising. A nation’s commitment to the welfare and security of its citizens is often measured by how it responds when its finest men and women make the ultimate sacrifice in service to their country.

The deaths of senior military officers in the fight against terrorism, including Brigadier General Uba and Brigadier General Momoh, and many more, remain painful reminders of the enormous sacrifices being made daily by members of the Armed Forces. These officers dedicated their lives to defending Nigeria against insurgency and insecurity, yet many Nigerians were left with the feeling that the national response to their deaths did not adequately reflect the magnitude of their service and sacrifice.

Beyond official statements of condemnation and condolences, many citizens expected a more robust and visible response—one that would demonstrate an unwavering resolve to bring the perpetrators to justice and intensify efforts to defeat the forces of terror. Such losses should serve not merely as moments of mourning but as catalysts for decisive action against those who continue to threaten the nation’s peace, security, and unity.

It is against this backdrop that concerns are being expressed regarding the death of General Rabe Abubakar. If the loss of serving generals did not elicit the level of response many Nigerians had hoped for, it is understandable why some fear that the passing of a retired general may receive even less attention from the authorities.

Ultimately, the greatest tribute to fallen heroes is not found in words of sympathy alone, but in concrete actions that strengthen national security, honour their sacrifices, and ensure that those responsible for such acts are relentlessly pursued and brought to justice.

The manner in which some military personnel have been treated, both in life and in death, is bound to have consequences for morale within the Armed Forces and for the willingness of future generations to enlist. It is only natural for a young citizen to think twice about joining the military when those who devote their lives to the service of the nation sometimes appear abandoned at their most vulnerable moments.

Why would one not hesitate when brave men and women give their all in defence of their country, only to face the prospect of falling into the hands of ruthless and barbaric terrorists? The courage required to wear the uniform is immense, but that courage must be matched by an unwavering national commitment to protect, support, and honour those who serve.

There is something profoundly troubling about the thought of a nation that entrusted a man with its uniform, bestowed upon him rank and responsibility, benefited from his years of sacrifice, celebrated his retirement, and yet seemed unable to guarantee his safety when he needed it most.

Today, we mourn General Rabe Abubakar.

He served his nation with honour, dedication, and distinction. His passing has reignited important questions about how a country values those who dedicate their lives to its service and security. It challenges us to reflect on whether we have done enough—not only to honour our heroes after their deaths, but also to safeguard them while they are alive.

This is more than a eulogy; it is a call to reflection. It is a reminder that the true measure of a nation’s gratitude to its heroes lies not merely in ceremonial tributes or eloquent speeches, but in its enduring commitment to their welfare, dignity, and security, both during and after their years of service.

May Allah forgive General Rabe Abubakar’s shortcomings, expand his grave, and grant him Aljannatul Firdaus. May He comfort his family, grant patience and strength, and bless them with peace and security, ameen. May Allah grant him eternal rest and comfort those he left behind, ameen.

By Zayyad I. Muhammad

The loss of an Army General, whether retired or in active service, at the hands of ragtag bandits, insurgents or terrorists is heartbreaking and a major loss to the nation.

What Nigeria is witnessing today can no longer be described merely as insurgency or banditry. Nigeria is at war. Simple.

Over the years, the country has suffered painful losses of highly trained military officers in the fight against terrorism and armed criminal groups. These incidents clearly show the scale, sophistication, and dangerous evolution of insecurity across the country.

In November 2021, Brigadier General Dzarma Zirkusu was killed in an ambush while commanding the 28 Task Force Brigade in the Chibok area of Borno State.

In November 2025, Brigadier General Musa Uba was killed in an ISWAP ambush near Wajiroko along the Damboa–Wajiroko Road in Borno State.

On April 9, 2026, Brigadier General Oseni Omoh Braimah, a Brigade Commander, was killed during a coordinated Boko Haram/ISWAP assault that overran a military base in Benisheikh, Kaga Local Government Area of Borno State.

On June 13, 2026, the Katsina State Government announced the death of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, a former Director of Defence Information, who died while in captivity after being abducted by bandits.

Similarly, in September 2018, retired Major General Idris Alkali was killed by a mob in Plateau State, another painful reminder that even retired senior military officers are not spared from the growing insecurity.

Reaching the rank of General in the Nigerian Army is an extremely competitive, merit-based process that often requires 25 to 35 years of dedicated service, sacrifice, discipline, and commitment to the nation.

These are not ordinary individuals. Generals and indeed all well-trained security personnel, whether active or retired, are strategic national assets. Their experience, intelligence, leadership, and institutional knowledge are invaluable to any country.

When a nation begins to lose such high ranking officers to terrorists and bandits, it is a clear indication that the threat has grown beyond ordinary criminality.

The time has come for Nigeria to fully confront this reality and respond with the seriousness, unity, and determination that war demands, despite the heavy consequences that often come with prolonged conflict and guerrilla warfare. The country’s survival, stability, and future depend on it.

Nigeria is at war with the bandits

Zayyad I. Muhammad writes from Abuja via zaymohd@yahoo.com.