The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (retd.), has directed security personnel to take decisive action against bandits and terrorists, warning that any operative who refuses to engage criminals under the pretext of awaiting orders could be treated as collaborating with them.

The minister gave the directive on Wednesday in Sokoto State during the commissioning of 62 operational vehicles and security equipment valued at ₦27.127 billion, procured by the Sokoto State Government to enhance security operations across the state.

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Addressing security operatives, Musa urged personnel not to hesitate in confronting armed bandits and terrorists once deployed for operations.

He warned that security officers who fail to act against criminals while claiming they are waiting for directives would face serious consequences.

According to him, any operative unwilling to engage bandits or terrorists in the line of duty would be regarded as aiding criminal activities.

The minister also commended Sokoto State Governor Ahmed Aliyu for providing operational vehicles and other security equipment, describing the intervention as a reflection of responsible governance and strategic leadership.

Musa said the procurement of the security assets demonstrated a collective commitment to strengthening the state’s security architecture and improving efforts to combat banditry, terrorism and kidnapping.

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The Defence Minister noted that the newly commissioned operational vehicles and tactical equipment would improve operational mobility, intelligence gathering and force protection for security agencies.

He, however, cautioned personnel against mishandling the equipment, stressing that the assets must be properly maintained and deployed for the purpose for which they were acquired.

Musa also reminded officers to conduct themselves professionally while carrying out their responsibilities, urging them to protect innocent citizens and avoid any form of harassment or extortion.

He emphasised that the primary responsibility of security personnel is to safeguard lives and property while working closely with local communities to eliminate criminal elements operating within their areas of responsibility.