The Federal Government has reported that security forces have eliminated over 13,000 terrorists and arrested more than 17,000 individuals since President Bola Ahmed Tinubu took office in May 2023.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, shared this information during an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Friday.
Idris noted that these figures were provided by security agencies as part of ongoing counter-terrorism efforts nationwide. He emphasized that, despite criticisms from some foreign entities, the Tinubu administration has made “significant progress” in addressing violent extremism, banditry, and associated security issues.
The minister pointed out that the government’s accomplishments contradict recent allegations presented to the United States House Subcommittee on Africa, where Nigeria was redesignated as a ‘Country of Particular Concern’ due to alleged persecution of Christians.
Idris stated that the administration has neither ignored nor underestimated security challenges but has enhanced military operations across the country.
“From May 2023 to date, over 13,500 criminals have been removed from our society, and more than 17,000 have been apprehended. Many are already undergoing trial, while others have been convicted,” Idris stated.
The minister further expressed that President Tinubu is “deeply saddened” by the loss of lives throughout the nation, emphasizing that killings, regardless of whether the victims are Christians or Muslims, are unacceptable.
“We should not have a situation where anyone is killed, regardless of their faith. It’s detrimental to our country, and no one should be content with the loss of innocent lives,” he declared.
Idris also refuted claims of targeted religious genocide, asserting that violence impacts citizens of various faiths.
“Christians are being killed in some areas, and Muslims are also being killed. It is a tragic situation, but the government is making substantial efforts to address it,” he added.
