Former COAS warns of Escalating insecurity, says Governors,Ministers Became Targets 

Former Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Tukur Buratai (rtd), has raised fresh concerns over Nigeria’s worsening security situation, warning that political leaders, including ministers, senators and governors, could become targets of bandits and insurgents if urgent measures are not taken.

Buratai made the remarks in a statement titled “A Frank and Patriotic Advice on Nigeria’s Escalating Security Crisis” following reports surrounding the abduction and killing of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar.

He described the incident as a dangerous signal of the growing strength and boldness of criminal groups operating across the country.

According to the former army chief, the killing of a senior military officer by non-state actors reflects a serious erosion of security deterrence and should serve as a wake-up call for authorities at all levels.

He warned that if the trend continues unchecked, prominent political office holders could become future targets.

Buratai recalled that he had warned in 2021 that insurgency and banditry could persist for as long as two decades unless decisive actions were taken.

He noted that recent developments appear to validate those concerns, stressing that criminal groups have become more sophisticated in intelligence gathering, weapon acquisition and operational coordination.

The retired general called on the Federal Government to abandon what he described as ineffective approaches, including negotiations with criminal groups, and instead launch a comprehensive military and intelligence offensive against terrorists and bandits.

He also proposed the establishment of a National Emergency Command to coordinate security operations in high-risk areas and report directly to the President.

Buratai further urged state governors to strengthen support for community-based intelligence networks, vetted vigilante groups and state policing initiatives.

He emphasized the need to identify and prosecute financiers, collaborators and informants who sustain criminal networks, warning that failure to adopt a more aggressive strategy could lead to even greater national security challenges.

Source …..Eagle Online