In a stern and unequivocal warning, the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (rtd), has declared that individuals who show sympathy or support for terrorists and bandits are complicit in their crimes, stating bluntly: “a friend of a thief is a thief.”
The minister’s comments, delivered during an official visit to Maiduguri on Tuesday, were a direct rebuke of controversial Islamic scholar Sheikh Ahmed Gumi and others who have offered justifications for criminal elements terrorizing the country.
Musa condemned the narrative that portrays bandits and terrorists as “brothers,” emphasizing that their actions represent neither regional, ethnic, nor religious fellowship. He stressed that providing any form of overt or covert support to these groups undermines national security and emboldens their campaigns of violence.
“Terrorism does not thrive on weapons alone but also on moral and rhetorical cover,” Musa stated. “Those who defend, excuse, or shield criminals—whether through words, influence, or silence—must recognise that they share responsibility for the consequences.”
The minister drew a clear distinction between compassion and complicity, insisting that while empathy for citizens is vital, excusing terrorism only legitimizes criminal behavior and prolongs the suffering of affected communities. He challenged all Nigerians to make a definitive choice: “Stand with the law and the nation, or be counted among those enabling criminality.”
Army Expands Training Amid Broader Security Push
The warning came as the Nigerian Army broke ground on a new training depot in Amasiri-Edda, Ebonyi State—a move aimed at strengthening national manpower development and security architecture.
Governor Francis Nwifuru, who performed the ceremony, hailed the project as a milestone that would boost youth recruitment from the South-east and foster socio-economic development. The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant-General Waidi Shaibu, represented by Major-General Oluremi Fadairo, said the depot aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s vision for equitable military infrastructure across Nigeria.
Poland Praises Nigeria’s Regional Leadership
In a separate diplomatic engagement, Poland’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Michał Cygan, described Nigeria as “a critical pillar of stability in West Africa.” During a visit to the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, in Abuja, Cygan praised the professionalism of Nigeria’s armed forces and expressed Poland’s interest in deepening defence cooperation.
Aneke reaffirmed the Nigerian Air Force’s commitment to partnerships that enhance counter-insurgency capabilities and regional security.
Idoma Group Calls for Action After Deadly Attack
Meanwhile, the apex socio-cultural organization of the Idoma Nation, Ochetoha K’Idoma, has called for decisive military action following a deadly attack on Akpa Otobi community in Benue State. The assault claimed four lives, including a serving member of the armed forces and a former local government councillor.
In a statement signed by its President-General, Prof. Yakubu Ochefu, and Secretary-General, Dr. Paul Edeh, the group condemned the “brutal and unprovoked attack” and warned that the killing of a soldier represents a direct challenge to Nigeria’s sovereignty.
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