President Bola Tinubu has issued a directive for a renewed security strategy in response to a surge in deadly attacks across Plateau, Benue, and Borno States, demanding immediate engagement with local political leaders to restore peace.
The National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, disclosed this after a four-hour security briefing held at the Aso Rock Villa, Abuja, on Wednesday. Present at the meeting were top intelligence chiefs and presidential aides, including DG of the National Intelligence Agency, Mohammed Mohammed; Chief Defence Intelligence, Gen. Emmanuel Undianeye; DG of the DSS, Oluwatosin Ajayi; and Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila.
Ribadu stated that Tinubu, deeply troubled by the killings, had mandated a swift and comprehensive response. “He’s so worried and concerned, he insisted that enough is enough,” Ribadu said. Intelligence chiefs were directed to visit the violence-stricken states and engage political leaders at the grassroots level.
Recent attacks include the killing of 51 people in Zikke village, Plateau; 56 deaths in twin assaults in Benue; and an IED blast in Borno that claimed eight lives. These incidents have heightened public fear and criticism over the government’s handling of security.
The NSA noted that while violence persists, government intervention has shown signs of progress. He emphasized the need for cooperation among federal, state, and community actors to address the root causes, many of which stem from communal conflicts.
In a related move, Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, ordered troops to clear bandits from parts of Kwara and Niger States within a month. He also pledged improved welfare and career development for soldiers.
Meanwhile, the Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures and the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) have criticized what they describe as the government’s inadequate response. The Speakers demanded urgent and coordinated action, while PFN President, Bishop Wale Oke, called for decisive leadership, warning against shielding perpetrators due to ethnic affiliations.
Retired Air Vice Marshal Monday Morgan urged state governors to leverage the proposed Forest Guard initiative and six new development commissions to boost regional security.
Despite reassurances from the government, the call for immediate and lasting action continues to grow amid worsening insecurity and public discontent.
