Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, has shed light on why security agencies are often unable to launch direct assaults on bandits operating across Northern Nigeria.
Speaking on Prime Time, an Arise Television programme monitored by Realtokng, Onanuga revealed that although security operatives are aware of the locations where bandits operate, launching attacks is extremely risky due to the proximity of civilians.
According to him, the bandits deliberately embed themselves within local communities, making it difficult for troops to strike without risking collateral damage.
Onanuga explained that the military must exercise extreme caution to prevent unintended harm to innocent people.
He recalled a past incident in Borno State where a mistaken airstrike, based on faulty intelligence, led to the bombing of civilians instead of terrorists. He stressed that such tragedies underscore the need for careful, calculated operations.
His remarks come amid the recent surge in bandit attacks, including the abduction of 38 worshippers at Christ Apostolic Church in Kwara State though all victims were later rescued following President Tinubu’s announcement. Likewise, over 200 students were kidnapped from a Catholic private school in Niger State, though about 50 managed to escape and reunite with their families.
Onanuga emphasized that preventing civilian casualties remains a top priority for the military, even when confronting violent criminal groups.
“Security personnel must act carefully to avoid harming citizens,” he said.
“In trying to strike these bandits, we must ensure innocent Nigerians are not caught in the crossfire.”
