As Nigeria continues to battle banditry, terrorism, and violent criminal activities, a bold statement from retired Brigadier-General Maharazu Tsiga has reignited the national conversation on how best to tackle insecurity. The former Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) believes that negotiations alone will not bring lasting peace and has called for a more decisive approach against criminal groups.
Speaking during a press briefing in Kaduna, Tsiga argued that bandits and terrorists are not invincible and should not be treated as forces beyond confrontation. Drawing from his personal experience during captivity, the retired military officer maintained that criminal groups are driven by fear just like ordinary citizens and can be weakened through determined and coordinated action.
According to him, endless negotiations may fail to produce meaningful results if authorities do not also target the wider networks that allegedly support criminal operations. He questioned the effectiveness of peace talks when those supplying resources, intelligence, and logistical support to criminal groups continue to operate behind the scenes.
Tsiga further alleged that informants and collaborators within communities and institutions often contribute to the persistence of insecurity. He stressed that dismantling such support systems is just as important as confronting armed groups directly.
The retired general also emphasized that security is not solely the responsibility of the military or law enforcement agencies. He called on citizens to work closely with security agencies by sharing intelligence and resisting intimidation from criminal elements. According to him, fear has become one of the strongest weapons used by bandits to control communities and spread panic.
He noted that when a handful of armed individuals can force entire communities to flee, it highlights the need for stronger cooperation between residents and security forces. In his view, lasting peace can only be achieved when government institutions, security agencies, and citizens unite against criminal networks.
As insecurity remains one of Nigeria’s most pressing challenges, Tsiga’s comments are likely to fuel further debate on whether the country should prioritize tougher security measures, negotiations, or a combination of both strategies in the fight against banditry and terrorism.
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