No bandits, terrorists, negotiators, sympathisers should be spared

Former military Head of State, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB), has issued a stern message to the Federal Government as Nigeria battles a fresh wave of kidnappings and terrorist threats.

In a post on his official X (formerly Twitter) account, the retired general said authorities must not spare anyone involved in terrorism.

He warned strongly against negotiating with criminals, stressing that security agencies should confront violent groups with full force.

He wrote: “No bandits, no terrorists, no terrorists negotiators or terrorists sympathizers should be spared for disrupting the peace of Nigerians.

“If I was the President, that would be my message to the Nigerian military and states governors. We can go band for band, we are not negotiating!”

Rising Kidnapping Cases in Kwara, Kebbi and Niger

IBB’s comments come at a time when several states are facing renewed security challenges.

In Kwara State, residents of communities in Ekiti and Ifelodun local government areas have raised concerns after armed groups abducted travellers and farmers in recent days.

In Kebbi State, bandits reportedly invaded parts of Danko-Wasagu and Sakaba local government areas, taking villagers away and forcing many families to flee their homes.

Niger State has also remained tense, following multiple abduction incidents, including the recent kidnapping of schoolchildren and farmers across Shiroro, Munya and Rafi local government areas.