Nigeria’s Security Forces Confront Banditry Amid Civilian Risks

The presidential adviser on information and strategy, Bayo Onanuga, revealed that Nigeria’s security agencies possess detailed knowledge of the identities and locations of bandit groups responsible for recent mass abductions, including the attack on St Mary’s Catholic School in Niger State. Despite this intelligence, military operations are often delayed due to concerns about potential collateral damage to civilians residing near the bandits’ hideouts.

During an interview with ARISE News, Onanuga stated, “The security people, they know all the bandits that are operating in that axis. They know them. They know where they operate.” He emphasized that while the government understands where these groups are situated, launching direct military action poses significant risks to innocent civilians.

Onanuga referenced past errors in military operations, specifically an incident in Borno State where civilians were mistakenly targeted due to a miscalculation in intelligence. “They must avoid that kind of mistake,” he cautioned. This history underlines the complexity of the current situation, where the government must balance effective action against banditry with the imperative of protecting civilian lives.

The ongoing uncertainty regarding the number of abducted students has compounded the challenges faced by authorities. Onanuga noted that neither the school nor the Niger State branch of the Christian Association of Nigeria has provided comprehensive records of the missing students. “As of now, the authorities are in the dark as to how many people are really missing,” he said, urging for clarity on the situation. He expressed concern that the school principal has reportedly “disappeared,” hindering efforts to ascertain the number of abducted individuals.

The adviser explained that security forces often refrain from immediate action against bandit camps following abductions due to the risk of collateral damage. He elaborated, “What sometimes restrains them from going after them is the risk of collateral damage. They go about abducting our people and use them as a shield so that they will not be attacked.” This tactic complicates the ability of security agencies to respond effectively to such threats.

Onanuga also discussed the implications of the bandits’ tactics. He indicated that these groups are aware of the potential consequences of defying government pressure, recognizing that continued abductions could prompt a military response aimed at their bases.

In light of ongoing security challenges, Onanuga addressed the President’s decision to redeploy officers from VIP protection to frontline duties. He asserted that this move could significantly enhance security in vulnerable communities, stating, “I read today about 100,000 policemen guarding VIPs. If you share them out to vulnerable areas, that will make a lot of difference.”

Responding to criticisms from church leaders regarding the government’s handling of security issues, Onanuga affirmed that the administration acknowledges the severity of the situation. “This government has never denied that Nigerians are being killed. We know we have problems, but we are making efforts to ensure that we stem all these things,” he said.

Looking ahead, Onanuga revealed that President Bola Tinubu is expected to address the nation soon, following consultations on security matters. “I think he will do so very soon,” he added, hinting at forthcoming measures aimed at enhancing public safety.

The situation remains critical as Nigeria grapples with the complex dynamics of banditry, military response, and the imperative to protect its citizens. As authorities work towards resolving these challenges, the coordination between security forces and community stakeholders will be essential for restoring safety and order.