Insecurity: Military chief warns criminals, seeks public support

The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, has called on Nigerians to continue supporting the military’s efforts to tackle insecurity, warning those aiding criminals to desist or face consequences.

Musa, speaking to journalists shortly after attending a joint meeting of the Northern Governors’ Forum and the Northern Traditional Rulers Council in Kaduna on Monday, expressed gratitude for the increased support and intelligence gathering from Nigerians, which has enabled the military to take adequate action.

“I want to thank all Nigerians for the support, which has increased. We are getting information as to when due, and we are equally taking adequate action.

“Please, we should not get tired. We want to also call on those who keep supporting criminals wherever they are in this country to stop,” Musa said.

The CDS emphasised the need for collective responsibility in achieving peace, stressing that the friend of a thief is equally guilty.

“For the friend of a thief is a thief, and if you are caught, you will be dealt with just like them,” he warned.

Addressing the recent attack on Shiroro lines, General Musa acknowledged the challenges posed by difficult terrain.

“There’s nowhere anybody is in total control. Some of these areas are supposed to have clear views so that patrols can take place, but some of these areas are dark forests.”

However, he assured that actions were being taken to clear the forests and monitor critical areas.

“The forests will be cleared so that action and repairs can be taken, and then we will be monitoring, which is critical, so that we can do the needful.”

Musa commended the troops for their efforts, urging them to remain focused and disciplined, saying, “For our men, the commanders are appreciating them, Nigerians are appreciating them. We want them to remain focused and disciplined to understand that we are here to protect Nigerians and Nigeria.”

He also reiterated the importance of collaboration between the military and civilians.

“We will continue to call on Nigerians to continue to give us support and to also advise those who think they provide logistics, food, and other items to criminals to desist, as actions will be taken against anyone found.”

The military has intensified efforts to address these issues, with recent successes in operations across the country.