By Editor
The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa, has directed security personnel to immediately engage and neutralise bandits and terrorists once deployed, warning that any operative who delays action while waiting for approval would be treated as a bandit.
Musa gave the directive on Wednesday in Sokoto State during the commissioning of 62 operational vehicles and other security equipment valued at ₦27.1 billion, procured by the Sokoto State Government to strengthen security operations across the state.
Addressing troops at the event, the Defence Minister stressed that soldiers and other security operatives must not hesitate to confront criminal elements whenever they are deployed for operations.
He warned that waiting for further instructions before engaging terrorists or bandits would not be tolerated.
"Once you are deployed, do not wait for any order from anybody to shoot any bandit or any terrorist. I want to make that very loud and clear. 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," Musa said.
The minister also urged personnel to properly maintain the newly commissioned vehicles and equipment, noting that they were acquired at enormous cost to improve security across the state.
According to him, the resources invested in procuring the equipment could have been channelled to other developmental projects, making it necessary for security agencies to ensure they are effectively utilised and well maintained.
"It is important for those that will handle this equipment. These equipment cost billions of naira that could have been used for other aspects but have been dedicated to this.
"So I want to charge you that you must maintain this equipment very well. We will come after a year to see how these equipment are doing," he added.