The Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, has directed security personnel to immediately kill and neutralize bandits and terrorists upon deployment, warning that any operative who delays action while waiting for orders would be treated as a terrorist.
The minister issued the directive on Wednesday during the commissioning of 62 operational vehicles and security equipment worth N27.1 billion procured by the Sokoto State Government to enhance security operations across Sokoto State.
Addressing troops at the event, Musa stressed that security operatives must act decisively against criminal elements without seeking further authorization.
> “Once you are deployed, do not wait for any order from anybody to shoot any bandit or any terrorist,” he said.
The Defence Minister emphasized that the directive was unequivocal, warning that hesitation in confronting armed criminals would attract severe consequences.
> “I want to make that very loud and clear – 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,” Musa declared.
Musa also urged personnel to ensure the proper maintenance of the newly commissioned operational assets, noting that the equipment represented a significant investment by the state government in the fight against insecurity.
He said the billions of naira spent on the vehicles and security equipment could have been allocated to other developmental projects but were instead dedicated to improving security across the state.
“It is important for those that will handle this equipment. These equipment cost billions of naira that could have been used for other aspects but have been dedicated to this,” he said.
The minister further warned that the condition of the equipment would be reviewed in the future.
“So I want to charge you that you must maintain this equipment very well. We will come after a year to see how these equipment are doing,” he added.
The newly commissioned fleet of operational vehicles and security equipment is expected to boost the capacity of security agencies in combating banditry, terrorism and other violent crimes across Sokoto State and its surrounding areas.
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