Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, has praised President Bola Tinubu administration and Nigeria’s security agencies for recent successes against terrorism and banditry, but cautioned against premature celebration, urging sustained efforts to secure the country.
The commendation followed months of high profile counter-terrorism operations coordinated by National Security Adviser (NSA) Nuhu Ribadu
In a statements on his X (formerly Twitter) Obi described the operation – which resulted in the arrest of self-styled Ansaru “Emir” Mahmud Usman and his deputy Mahmud al-Nigeri – as commendable.
The arrests followed a three-month intelligence-led operation targeting Ansaru’s leadership structure and funding networks. The former Anambra State governor specifically praised Ribadu’s strategic coordination of the cross border mission that dismantled a key terrorist cell operating around Kainji National Park.
National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu confirmed over the weekend that security forces had captured two key Ansaru commanders – including the group’s self-proclaimed “Emir” Mahmud Usman. The notorious terrorist leader allegedly coordinated sleeper cells nationwide and masterminded multiple high-profile kidnappings and armed robberies that financed the group’s operations.
Also apprehended was Usman’s deputy, Mahmud al-Nigeri, who commanded Ansaru’s dangerous “Mahmudawa” cell. This unit operated primarily in the Kainji National Park region, with operations stretching across Niger and Kwara states into neighboring Benin Republic, establishing a transnational terror network
Obi in his statement said: “I commend the Nigerian security agencies for their recent achievements in the fight against terrorism, kidnappings, and banditry. This is indeed a remarkable feat and a step in the right direction in our collective struggle against insecurity.”
“Our gallant officers and men in uniform have shown courage, often under very difficult conditions. Their sacrifices remind us that Nigeria can—and must—be safe for all its citizens.”
However, Obi warned that arrests alone are insufficient. “Terrorism and violent criminality thrive when justice is not served, when those arrested are recycled back into society without accountability,” he said. “Justice must take its full course so that impunity is not encouraged.”
The recent operations reflect Ribadu’s strategy of improved intelligence-sharing between the military, police, and Department of State Services (DSS). Analysts credit the NSA’s tactical redeployments and collaboration with regional forces for the breakthroughs. Yet challenges persist: bandit attacks continue in rural areas, and judicial delays risk undermining gains.
Obi called for stronger institutional support: “Let this victory remind us that security is the foundation of every meaningful development. A secure Nigeria is possible, and together we must support our security agencies with the right leadership, resources, and political will to end the reign of terror in our land.” He reiterated his signature hope: “A New Nigeria is Possible.”
The statement drew mixed reactions. Security experts welcomed Obi’s bipartisan tone but echoed his caution. “Celebrating arrests is fine, but without convictions, these wins are temporary,” said Kabiru Adamu, a counter-terrorism analyst.
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