Security operatives in Nigeria have faced a surge of attacks from criminal elements over the past few weeks, resulting in the deaths of numerous personnel. Reports indicate that more than 50 security operatives were killed in September alone, with the Nigeria Police Force and the Nigerian Army being the most affected.
Recent incidents in states such as Benue, Kogi, Edo, and Zamfara have raised significant concerns. On September 19, armed men, suspected to be Fulani herdsmen and local militias, attacked a joint security team at the Agu Center in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State, killing at least 11 operatives. The attack was reportedly facilitated by an informant within the security team.
This latest incident has brought the total number of security personnel killed in Benue State over the last year to more than 80. Governor Hyacinth Alia previously confirmed that at least 76 security personnel had lost their lives in the line of duty in the state within the last year.
Just days after the Benue attack, gunmen struck in Kogi State, resulting in the deaths of five police officers in separate incidents. Earlier, on September 10, three officers were killed in Egbe, a town bordering Kwara State. In Zamfara State, soldiers on patrol were ambushed, leading to the deaths of five personnel.
In a tragic incident on September 18, two soldiers were killed during a raid on military barracks in Bama Local Government Area of Borno State. Additionally, on September 5, eight personnel of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) were killed by suspected kidnappers in Edo State.
The ongoing violence has alarmed security agencies and stakeholders alike, prompting calls for urgent action. Security expert Mr. Abayomi Oyelade emphasized the need for agencies to address potential infiltration within their ranks, stating, “You can’t be fighting your enemies and succeed when the people around you are collaborating with those you are fighting.” He suggested that credible intelligence and collaboration with telecommunications companies could help disrupt bandit communications during operations.
Comrade Jare Ajayi, National Publicity Secretary of Afenifere, echoed these sentiments, urging the Federal Government to procure modern technology, such as drones and surveillance cameras, to combat the escalating crisis. He also called for better motivation and support for security personnel.
As the violence continues, the urgent need for effective strategies to combat banditry and protect security operatives remains a pressing concern.
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