Retired General Theophilus Yakubu Danjuma has urged the Chief of Defense Staff (CDS) General Christopher Musa to decisively end banditry and violence in Nigeria. Speaking at the launch of the book Big Boots: Lessons From My Military Service by retired Major General Solomon Udounwa, Danjuma emphasized that the current military leadership must tackle these issues with urgency and no excuses.
Danjuma, addressing both serving and retired military officials, stated, “We must end the banditry and the killings that are going on in our country as soon as possible. The responsibilities are on your shoulders; those of you who are still servicing. No excuses, absolutely no excuses.”
In response, General Musa affirmed the Nigerian Armed Forces’ commitment to combating banditry and terrorism. He assured that the military is dedicated to restoring peace and security in the country and will not be discouraged or defeated in their mission.
The North-West and North-Central regions of Nigeria have been plagued by violent bandits involved in kidnappings and other terror activities. According to SBM Intelligence, approximately ₦1.04 billion was paid in ransoms over the past year, with over 7,500 people abducted in numerous incidents nationwide.