The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (retd.), has issued a strong directive to security personnel, urging them to take immediate action against armed bandits and terrorists without waiting for orders. Speaking in Sokoto State on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, Musa warned that any operative who fails to act decisively would be treated as collaborating with criminals.
Directive to Shoot on Sight
“Once you are deployed, do not wait for any order from anybody to shoot any bandit or any terrorist,” he declared. “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.”
The directive was delivered during the commissioning of 62 operational vehicles and advanced security equipment worth ₦27.127 billion, procured by the Sokoto State Government to strengthen security operations. Governor Ahmed Aliyu highlighted that the investment included bulletproof vehicles, Buffalo Armoured Personnel Carriers, 320 motorcycles, 3,200 security gadgets, 2,000 bulletproof helmets and vests, 200 night-vision goggles, and thermal devices and tactical equipment.
Sokoto’s Security Investment
Aliyu noted that the state had previously spent over ₦36 billion on security interventions, including barracks construction, operational vehicles, and the establishment of the Sokoto State Community Guard Corps. The new equipment is expected to enhance mobility, intelligence gathering, and force protection in the fight against banditry, terrorism, and kidnapping.
General Musa praised Governor Aliyu’s commitment, describing the intervention as “a demonstration of strategic leadership, responsible governance and our collective determination to strengthen the security architecture of Sokoto State and Nigeria as a whole.” He emphasised that Sokoto remains one of the most peaceful states due to collaboration between government, security agencies, and residents.
Warning Against Misuse of Assets
The Defence Minister cautioned officers against neglecting or mishandling the newly acquired assets. “This equipment costs billions of naira. We don’t want to hand them over and then you throw them away or mishandle them. They must serve the purpose for which they were procured,” he said. He reminded personnel to remain professional, protect innocent citizens, and avoid harassment or extortion. “You are not to go there and extort or harass the people. You are there to protect them and work with them to eliminate bandits and terrorists operating within your area,” Musa added.
Legislative Push and Community Collaboration
Governor Aliyu revealed that his administration has forwarded a bill to the State House of Assembly seeking stiffer penalties for informants aiding bandits. He also announced plans for a Command and Control Centre to improve surveillance and coordination of security operations. “Security is a collective responsibility and together we shall overcome every security challenge confronting our state,” Aliyu said, urging residents to provide credible intelligence to security agencies.
