Defence Minister tells troops: ‘Shoot terrorists first, don’t wait for orders’

The Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa (retd.), on Wednesday warned security operatives involved in counterterrorism and anti-banditry activities not to show any hesitation when faced with armed criminals, noting that any operator who chooses not to act for fear of being given further instructions is seen as aiding the enemy.

While addressing the gathering in Sokoto at the commissioning of security equipment purchased by the Sokoto State Government, the minister urged the troops to react against the terrorists and bandits whenever necessary.

“Once you are deployed, do not wait for any order from anybody to shoot any bandit or any terrorist,” he said.

“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. This is a general order.”

The directive was issued following the unveiling of the Sokoto State Government’s security intervention package worth N27.6 billion, which includes armoured vehicles, tactical vehicles and 300 motorcycles to boost security activities in the state.

The equipment was launched at the Giginya Memorial Stadium by the defense minister in the presence of high-ranking military officers, security agencies, traditional rulers, government officials and community members.

Governor Ahmed Aliyu described the acquisition of the equipment as one of the biggest security investment initiatives by the state government, aimed at boosting the capability of security agencies in dealing with bandits, terrorist groups and other violent acts.

Governor Ahmed Aliyu said that the intervention is part of his administration’s plan to bring about peaceful environment for the security of people and their properties, especially in the border communities and rural areas that have experienced insecurity.

He added that security is the bedrock of any sustainable development as no form of economic activity including agriculture can flourish in an unsafe environment.

Aliyu expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu, the Armed Forces and security agencies for their continued assistance in fighting insecurity, promising to maintain the investments that support the work of security agencies in the fight against terrorism.

The governor also applauded Gen. Musa for his leadership role and commitment to fighting terrorism and banditry. To honor him for his efforts in ensuring national security, Aliyu dedicated a road in Sokoto metropolis, which he named “General Christopher Musa Road.”

Gen. Musa expressed appreciation to the government of Sokoto State for emphasizing security as an investment that demonstrates vision and commitment to the people’s safety.

“Combating insecurity calls for collaborative efforts between the Federal Government, state government, local government, and citizens,” said Gen. Musa.

Commenting on the dedication of new assets by the Sokoto State government, the defense minister stated that the assets would increase efficiency and improve the spirit of the security personnel deployed in Sokoto State and its surrounding areas.

He also asked the citizens to continue giving credible information to the security agencies in order to counter the security challenges.

Musa has assured the citizens of Nigeria that the Armed Forces are determined to weed out criminal elements and ensure that peace is restored in the nation.

This concluded with the inspection and handing over of the security equipment to the respective security agencies, with the people involved referring to the security intervention as a significant development in the security structure of Sokoto State.