Nigeria Intensifies Fight Against Terrorism with Public Wanted List
In a significant move to combat nationwide security threats, Nigeria's Defence Headquarters took decisive action in 2024 by publicly naming dozens of individuals wanted for terrorism and violent extremism. The announcement marked a crucial step in the country's ongoing battle against insurgent groups and criminal elements operating across multiple regions.
Major General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, officially disclosed the comprehensive list during a press briefing in Abuja. The military authority displayed the names prominently in a public banner, urging citizens to participate actively in national security efforts.
Complete Roster of Wanted Terrorism Suspects
The Defence Headquarters released an extensive list of 37 individuals identified as key players in terrorist activities and banditry operations. The wanted persons include:
Alhaji Shingi, Malindi Yakubu, Boka, Dogo Gide, Halilu Sububu, Ado Aliero, Bello Turji, Dan Bokkolo, Labi Yadi, Nagala, Saidu Idris, Kachalla Rugga, Sani Gurgu, Abu Zaida, Modu Sulum, Baba Data, Ahmad, Sani Teacher, Baa Sadiq, Abdul Saad, Kaka Abi, Mohammad Khalifa, Umar Tella, Abu Mutahid, Mallam Mohammad, Mallam Tahiru Baga, Uzaiya, Ali Ngule, and several others with specific location details.
Notable among the wanted individuals were Sani Dangote from Dumbarum Village in Zurmi LGA, Zamfara State, and Bello Turji Gudda from Fakai Village, also in Zamfara State. The list further included Leko from Mozoj Village in Mutazu LGA, Katsina State, and Dogo Nahali from Yar Tsamiyar Jno Village in Kankara LGA, Katsina State.
Nationwide Security Operation Coverage
The wanted suspects operate across four major geographical zones of Nigeria, demonstrating the widespread nature of security challenges. The North-East, North-West, North-Central, and South-East regions all featured individuals sought for various criminal activities including terrorism, violent extremism, and secessionist threats against the Nigerian state.
Security analysts noted that the public declaration represented a strategic shift in counter-terrorism operations, leveraging community participation in identifying and locating suspected terrorists. The Defence Headquarters emphasized that the individuals named were commanders of terrorist groups, bandits, and insurgents responsible for coordinating attacks in their respective regions.
Public Cooperation in Security Matters
Military authorities made a strong appeal to Nigerian citizens, encouraging them to provide credible information that could lead to the apprehension of the listed suspects. The Defence Headquarters reaffirmed its commitment to national security while calling on the public to remain vigilant and cooperative in the ongoing efforts to combat terrorism across the country.
The 2024 announcement represented one of the most comprehensive public disclosures of wanted terrorism suspects in recent years, reflecting the military's determination to neutralize security threats through collaborative efforts with the civilian population. Security experts praised the transparency while cautioning about potential challenges in implementation.
As Nigeria continues to grapple with multiple security challenges, the public wanted list serves as both a practical tool for law enforcement and a symbolic gesture of the military's resolve to protect national sovereignty and ensure public safety across all regions.
