In a broad directive targeting insurgency in the Northwest, Defence Minister Gen. Christopher Musa (rtd.) instructed troops in Sokoto State to confront bandits and terrorists immediately, without awaiting orders from superiors.
He issued this order on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, at Giginya Memorial Stadium during the official commissioning of 62 armoured vehicles and operational assets supplied by the Sokoto State Government.
“You are deployed to neutralise threats. Once deployed, do not wait for anyone’s order to shoot any bandit or terrorist,” Musa stated before a crowd of military leaders, police personnel, and officials. He further warned: “Anyone refusing to shoot or kill a bandit or terrorist while waiting for an order will be treated as a bandit.”
The equipment, worth ₦27.127 billion, includes armoured personnel carriers, utility vehicles, and 300 motorcycles designed to improve intelligence and rapid response in remote regions. Governor Ahmed Aliyu, who hosted the event, called this intervention a “game-changer” in combating kidnapping and cattle rustling afflicting the state.
Musa emphasised that troops must not misuse their gear or harass civilians, stressing discipline and the protection of citizens as top priorities. “Your role is to secure lives and property, not to intimidate,” he stated.
The directive has ignited debate: security experts appreciate its clarity, while human rights groups seek protections against possible abuses. For Sokoto residents, the clear message was: the state will confront the enemy with overwhelming force and no hesitation.