Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) don confirm say Federal Government give arms to trained vigilantes to help security agencies fight terrorism, banditry and other criminal activities, especially for hard-to-reach forest areas.
ONSA talk this one for statement wey Abu Michael, Head of Strategic Communications for National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), issue while responding to media reports about Kwara State, where security operatives recover rifle wey dem trace back to ONSA.
According to am, the action follow the Terrorism Prevention and Prohibition Act, 2022, and dey part of Nigeria official counter-terrorism strategy.
Hybrid Security Strategy
Abu Michael explain say under the National Counter Terrorism Strategy (NACTEST), Nigeria dey use hybrid security approach, wey combine regular security forces with trained auxiliary groups like hunters and vigilantes to operate for difficult terrains.
“This same strategy guide how Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) support military for North East during fight against Boko Haram,” e talk.
He add say the approach don dey used for parts of North West and North Central, and e don produce positive results in reducing activities of bandits and terrorists.
Kwara Matter No Different
According to ONSA, the situation for Kwara no different from other areas where hybrid operations dey happen.
However, e say some media reports no correct, and information about the operation limited because of the sensitive nature of the security exercise.
“Details dey restricted to avoid compromising operations and to protect the lives of security personnel and auxiliary forces,” the statement read.
No Arms for Socio-Cultural Groups
ONSA stress say Federal Government no dey conduct kinetic operations with socio-cultural organisations.
“For avoidance of doubt, claims say ONSA give arms to any socio-cultural group na false and make people ignore am,” Abu Michael talk.
He clarify say all vigilantes and auxiliary personnel dey directly recruited and vetted by authorised security and intelligence agencies.
“All operations dey carried out according to law and standard operating procedures,” he add.
Media Urged to Act Responsibly
The security office urge the media to act responsibly by protecting sensitive security information and always seek clarification from official spokespersons.
Abu Michael also assure say NCTC dey committed to transparency and open engagement to help the public understand Nigeria counter-terrorism efforts better.
