Olayiwola Matthew
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has raised fresh concerns over the activities of informants aiding terrorists and bandits across northern Nigeria, describing them as “worse than the insurgents themselves.”
Speaking in Birnin Kebbi during a visit to traditional rulers and community leaders, the Director of Defence Media Operations, Brigadier General Tukur Ismail Gusau, lamented that the menace of informants was undermining ongoing military operations.
“They are everywhere and in every place. Informants are the major impediments to our efforts in defeating terrorism and banditry,” Gusau said, stressing that the military’s success largely depends on the cooperation of citizens.
According to him, while the armed forces can only contribute about 30 percent in the fight against insecurity, 70 percent of the responsibility lies with citizens, particularly in providing timely and reliable intelligence.
Gusau also dismissed speculations that the military was engaged in peace deals with bandits and insurgents.
He clarified that over 120 terrorists had surrendered through established safe corridors but insisted that “at no time has the Defence Headquarters entered into any peace agreement with criminals.”
He explained that his visit to Kebbi was on the directive of the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, to prevent the escalation of insecurity in the North-West to the level already witnessed in the North-East.
“We decided to come here to interface with you to support us in achieving our set goals. Insurgents operate in disguise, and it is only with your cooperation that we can stop them,” he added.
The DHQ spokesperson disclosed that beyond the existing military base in Kebbi, plans are underway to establish a full army brigade to bolster security in the state.
He, however, warned that the persistence of informants continues to frustrate military gains, urging community leaders and residents to expose collaborators within their midst.