The Minister of Defence, retired General Christopher Musa, has warned that negotiating with bandits poses a serious threat to Nigeria’s national security.
Musa made the statement during an interview with BBC Hausa, where he reiterated the Federal Government’s firm position against engaging armed criminal groups in peace talks.
According to him, negotiations with bandits are dangerous and counter-productive, as they embolden criminal networks and weaken ongoing military operations.
“Negotiations only prolong insecurity,” the Defence Minister said, stressing that bandits cannot be trusted to honour any agreement reached with them.
He added that the Federal Government has consistently advised state governments to avoid any form of negotiation, ransom payment, or action that could legitimise armed groups terrorising communities.
Musa urged governors to align strictly with the federal security strategy, noting that sustained military pressure, intelligence-led operations and strong community cooperation remain the most effective ways to restore peace.
His comments come amid public outrage over reports of state-level peace initiatives and plans to release suspected bandits, which critics say undermine justice and demoralise security personnel.
The Defence Minister also appealed to citizens to stop providing bandits with food, money or information, warning that such support fuels violence and delays the return of peace and stability across the country.
