The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (retd.), has directed security personnel to take decisive action against armed bandits and terrorists, warning that operatives who fail to confront criminals while waiting for further instructions could be treated as collaborators.
Musa gave the directive on Wednesday in Sokoto State during the commissioning of 62 operational vehicles and security equipment valued at ₦27.127 billion, procured by the Sokoto State Government to strengthen security operations across the state.
Addressing security personnel at the event, the minister urged deployed operatives to act swiftly when confronted with criminal threats.
“Once you are deployed, do not wait for any order from anybody to shoot any bandit or any terrorist,” Musa said.
“Anybody who refuses to shoot or kill any bandit or terrorist in the name of waiting for an order, we will treat you like a bandit.”
The Defence Minister described the security intervention as a reflection of strategic leadership and commended Sokoto State Governor Ahmed Aliyu for his continued support to security agencies through the provision of logistics and operational resources.
“This event is not merely the unveiling of security assets. It is a demonstration of strategic leadership, responsible governance and our collective determination to strengthen the security architecture of Sokoto State and Nigeria as a whole,” he said.
Musa, who described himself as “a proud son of Sokoto,” said the state had maintained relative peace due to cooperation between the government, security agencies and residents.
He added that continued collaboration among stakeholders remained essential in addressing security challenges and sustaining stability across the state.
“Once you are deployed, do not wait for any order from anybody to shoot any bandit or any terrorist. Anybody who refuses to shoot or kill any bandit or terrorist in the name of waiting for an order, we will treat you like a bandit.”
– Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa has… pic.twitter.com/TXcAgOeVeB
— Imran Muhammad (@Imranmuhdz) July 8, 2026
