Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa (Rtd.), has issued a standing directive ordering troops to shoot bandits and terrorists on sight without waiting for further approval during military operations.
The directive was announced on Wednesday during the commissioning of newly acquired security assets in Sokoto State, where the Defence Chief warned that any soldier who hesitates to engage armed criminals under the guise of awaiting orders would face serious consequences.
General Musa declared that once troops are deployed to operational areas and identify bandits or terrorists, they must immediately neutralise the threat.
He stressed that soldiers who fail to act decisively against terrorists or bandits would be treated as collaborators, describing the directive as a general operational order aimed at strengthening the fight against insecurity.
The Defence Chief’s remarks come amid renewed efforts by the Federal Government to curb escalating attacks by bandits and terrorist groups, particularly across Nigeria’s North-West and North-East regions.
The directive was issued during the inauguration of security equipment worth over ₦27 billion procured by the Sokoto State Government to support security agencies in combating criminal activities.
The newly commissioned assets include armoured personnel carriers, tactical vehicles, operational motorcycles, bulletproof vests and other security equipment intended to enhance mobility and rapid response capabilities.
General Musa commended the Sokoto State Government for investing in security and urged security agencies to ensure the proper maintenance and effective deployment of the equipment.
He also emphasised the importance of intelligence sharing, collaboration among security agencies and community participation in addressing Nigeria’s security challenges.
The Defence Chief reiterated that defeating terrorism, banditry and other violent crimes requires swift action, professionalism and unwavering commitment from security personnel.
His directive is expected to reinforce ongoing military operations as security forces intensify efforts to dismantle terrorist networks, rescue kidnapped victims and restore peace in troubled communities across the country.
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