A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State, Mr. Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, has called on Nigeria’s Service Chiefs to adopt a tougher stance against bandits, insurgents, and other perpetrators of violent crimes threatening national security.
Oyintiloye made the call in a statement issued in Osogbo on Sunday, urging the security leadership to act decisively to restore public confidence in their capacity to protect citizens.
He noted that while the armed forces have demonstrated capability, the continued killings and abductions in parts of the country require more ruthless and coordinated action.
“The Service Chiefs are doing their best, but they must be more ruthless with bandits and insurgents until peace is fully restored,” he said. “People are tired and living in fear due to the ongoing violence. Security agencies must act faster and more decisively.”
Expressing concern over recent attacks in Kwara, Borno, Zamfara, and Niger States, Oyintiloye urged the military and other security agencies to dismantle criminal networks and expose any internal saboteurs undermining operations.
He also stressed the need to involve local security networks and community members in intelligence gathering to enhance surveillance and response capacity.
“The Service Chiefs should work closely with local security groups and residents. Intelligence from communities is crucial to defeating these violent groups,” he added.
Oyintiloye further advised the authorities to target the financiers and sponsors of terrorist and bandit groups to weaken their operations.
Commending President Bola Tinubu and the National Assembly for sustaining support for the armed forces, he expressed optimism that with collaboration and commitment, Nigeria would overcome insecurity in due course.
Nigeria continues to face persistent security challenges, including insurgency in the North-East, banditry in the North-West, and communal violence in parts of the Middle Belt, despite ongoing military operations and increased funding.
