Defence Minister, NSA Vow Peace Restoration
By Akeem Oduyoye
Security agencies have intensified operations across the country as the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, issued a strong warning to anyone attempting to threaten communities or undermine national stability. Ribadu said the government will take firm action against terrorists and criminal groups, stressing that peace and order will be restored nationwide.
In a related development, the newly sworn-in Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (retd.), has assured Nigerians that he is fully committed to securing the country. He promised that citizens will begin to see clear results in the shortest possible time as the government steps up the fight against insecurity.
The statements from both top security leaders came at a critical moment, as concerns over violent attacks, kidnappings, and bandit activities continue to dominate security discussions across several states.
During a briefing, General Musa said the armed forces are ready to confront all threats and will not relent until Nigerians can live and move freely without fear. He emphasized discipline, renewed strategy, and full cooperation among security agencies as the new direction under his leadership.
At the event, the Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Matthew Hassan Kukah, urged the Defence Minister to flush out terrorists and restore normalcy across affected communities. Bishop Kukah expressed hope that the new leadership would bring an end to the “years of pain and uncertainty” faced by citizens.
Despite ongoing operations, anxieties remain high especially in Kwara State where the kidnapped monarch of Bayagan-Ile community, Alhaji Rafiu Salami, is still being held by bandits five days after his abduction. Security operatives are said to be tracking the abductors’ movements, but no rescue has yet been confirmed.
However, there was a positive turn yesterday as the five kidnapped students of Rivers State University, RSU, regained their freedom. The students, abducted from the RSU Satellite Campus in Emohua, had been held since Tuesday.
Authorities confirmed their release and stated that efforts are ongoing to apprehend those responsible for the kidnapping. Community leaders in Emohua praised the rescue effort, noting that the incident had caused widespread panic among students and residents.
Security analysts say the government’s renewed posture, especially with strong statements from both the NSA and the Defence Minister, indicates a more aggressive approach to tackling threats nationwide.
Citizens have expressed cautious optimism, hoping that the new security leadership will deliver on its promises and bring lasting peace to troubled communities.
The NSA reiterated that no criminal group will be allowed to intimidate the nation, assuring Nigerians that the government is fully prepared to defeat terror and restore order.