Amid Nigeria's escalating security crisis, a leading security specialist has issued a strong demand for the Federal Government to apprehend individuals who are falsely presenting themselves as mediators for terrorist groups.
Call for Action Against Terror Sympathizers
Amb. Abayomi Nurain Mumuni, a prominent security expert, made this urgent appeal on Thursday, November 27, 2025. In a statement released by his media aide, Rasheed Abubakar, Mumuni expressed deep concern about the increasing number of self-appointed negotiators who openly associate with terrorist factions commonly known as bandits.
He cautioned that these individuals might be operating without Nigeria's best interests in mind, potentially exploiting public empathy while simultaneously strengthening terrorist organizations. Mumuni emphasized that including such sympathizers in peace discussions is not only ineffective but also represents a serious danger to the nation's socio-political stability.
Root Causes and Strategic Solutions
The security analyst identified multiple drivers behind Nigeria's terrorism problem, including financial incentives, political exploitation, social complaints, and connections to organized criminal networks. He insisted that tackling these fundamental issues requires determined government intervention and an absolute refusal to tolerate any support for criminal elements.
Mumuni proposed a five-point strategic approach for the government to effectively address this threat:
- Immediate arrest and prosecution of anyone impersonating a terrorist mediator
- Thorough investigation of their networks and associations
- Enhancement of law enforcement capabilities
- Increased public awareness campaigns
- Collaborative efforts between government agencies, civil society, and international allies
He stressed that well-trained security personnel and an informed citizenry are crucial components in fighting terrorism and supporting national security objectives.
DSS Testimony in Related Case
In a connected development, a witness from the Department of State Service (DSS) testified before the Federal High Court in Abuja on Wednesday. The operative, whose identity remains protected for security reasons, stated that Tukur Mamu, who is currently facing trial for alleged terrorism financing, was never authorized by the Federal Government to negotiate with terrorists responsible for the 2022 Abuja-Kaduna train attack.
According to evidence presented by DSS lawyer David Kaswe, the defendant allegedly bypassed the official Chief of Defence Staff Committee established to negotiate the release of abduction victims. The witness claimed Mamu acted independently for personal gain, encouraging terrorists to discuss ransom payments with victims' families, collecting money on their behalf, and illegally facilitating these transactions.
The operative further alleged that Mamu profited financially from these ransom negotiations, possessed illegal firearms, and even provided terrorists with technical knowledge on website creation.
Mumuni concluded with a powerful statement: "The time for action is now. Nigerians deserve a safe and secure country. The government must demonstrate the will to confront terrorism by addressing both the criminals and their apologists. Only through decisive and sincere action can we build a safer future."
