The Nigerian government faces significant challenges in combating banditry across northern states despite having intelligence about the identities and locations of criminal groups, according to a senior presidential official.
Security Agencies Know Bandit Hideouts
Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy, has confirmed that security forces possess detailed knowledge about bandit operations in troubled regions. During an appearance on ARISE News' Prime Time programme on Monday, November 24, Onanuga stated that authorities have identified the groups responsible for recent mass abductions, including the attack on St Mary's Catholic School in Papiri, Niger State.
"The security people, they know all the bandits that are operating in that axis. They know them. They know where they operate," Onanuga emphasized during the interview.
Why Immediate Military Action Isn't Possible
The presidential aide explained that operational constraints prevent immediate airstrikes on bandit enclaves. He pointed to past mistakes in Borno State where military operations accidentally harmed civilians as a cautionary example. According to Onanuga, bandits frequently use abducted civilians as human shields, making direct military action too dangerous for hostages.
Another complication mentioned was the difficulty in verifying abduction cases. "As of now, the authorities are in the dark as to how many people are really missing. You said students are missing—let us have their names. Let us know what we are looking for," Onanuga stated. He noted that the disappearance of the school principal has further complicated security efforts to establish accurate numbers.
Government's Security Reinforcement Strategy
Onanuga highlighted several measures the administration is implementing to strengthen security. One significant step involves redeploying police officers from VIP protection duties to frontline security operations in vulnerable areas.
"I read today about 100,000 policemen guarding VIPs. If you share them out to vulnerable areas, that will make a lot of difference," he remarked, indicating a major shift in security personnel allocation.
The government's approach reflects the complex balance between taking decisive action against bandits and protecting innocent civilians caught in conflict zones across northern Nigeria.
