Defence Minister Orders Troops to Shoot Bandits, Terrorists on Sight

The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa, has directed security personnel to immediately engage and neutralize bandits and terrorists during operations, warning that any officer who delays action while waiting for approval would be treated as a terrorist.

Speaking on Wednesday in Sokoto State during the commissioning of 62 operational vehicles and other security equipment worth ₦27.1 billion, procured by the state government, Musa urged troops to act decisively against criminal elements.

“Once you are deployed, do not wait for any order from anybody to shoot any bandit or any terrorist,” he said.

He added:

“I want to make it very clear—anybody who refuses to shoot or kill any bandit or terrorist because they are waiting for an order, we will treat that person like a bandit.”

The defence minister also emphasized the need for proper maintenance of the newly acquired equipment, noting that the investment represented a significant commitment to improving security.

He reminded personnel that the equipment cost billions of naira and should be carefully maintained, adding that officials would return after one year to assess its condition and usage.