Security Agencies Know Bandit Locations But Restricted by Civilian Presence
The Nigerian Presidency has provided crucial insights into why security forces cannot launch direct attacks against bandits despite having intelligence about their various locations. Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy, revealed this critical information during an appearance on Arise TV on Monday, November 24.
Onanuga explained that bandits strategically position themselves within civilian populations, making it extremely difficult for security operatives to neutralize them without endangering innocent Nigerians. This revelation comes amid growing public concern about the persistent security challenges in northern Nigeria.
Past Tragedies Force Government Caution in Security Operations
The presidential aide disclosed that previous military operations have resulted in tragic consequences when inaccurate intelligence led to civilian casualties. Past military air strikes in some northern states mistakenly hit civilians due to faulty information, creating a situation where the government must exercise extreme caution.
"They know all the bandits that are operating in that axis. They know them. But they can't just go there because our people are living around where they operate. They must act carefully to avoid harming citizens," Onanuga emphasized during the television interview.
This cautious approach reflects the government's commitment to protecting civilian lives while combating insecurity, even as pressure mounts for more decisive action against criminal elements.
Niger Abduction: Clarification on Escaped Students and Rescue Efforts
Addressing the recent abduction of school pupils in Niger State, Onanuga provided important clarifications about the situation. He confirmed that no ransom demands have been made regarding the kidnapped students and highlighted challenges in rescue coordination.
The presidential aide expressed frustration with the delay in obtaining complete information about the abducted pupils, noting that school authorities and local communities have not provided full documentation of those missing. This information gap is hampering precise rescue planning by security agencies.
"Give us the names. They don't want to give us the names. Why? What are they hiding?" Onanuga questioned during the interview, underscoring the importance of accurate data for effective rescue operations.
Onanuga also corrected misinformation circulating about some students escaping from bandits, clarifying that these children had merely fled toward their homes during the initial attack and were never actually in captivity.
Police Redeployment and Successful Rescue Operation
In a significant policy development, Onanuga revealed that President Tinubu has approved the redeployment of police officers from VIP protection duties to vulnerable communities. This move addresses the imbalance where over 100,000 police personnel guard influential Nigerians while rural areas remain severely underprotected.
"In many places, like in Eruku, they had three or four policemen and only one rifle. Meanwhile, fully armed policemen are guarding VIPs. Redeploying these officers to high-risk areas will make a big difference," Onanuga stated.
The presidential aide also shared details of a successful rescue operation where 38 kidnapped worshippers from Christ Apostolic Church in Kwara State were freed through coordinated efforts between the military and Department of State Service (DSS).
According to Onanuga, security agencies utilized advanced tracking systems to monitor the kidnappers and successfully negotiated the victims' release without bloodshed, demonstrating the government's strategic approach to hostage situations.
