Senate orders crackdown on bandits flaunting crime cash on TikTok

Abuja, Nigeria | By Prime Brief Media

President Bola Tinubu has issued an ultimatum to terrorists, bandits and kidnappers, demanding immediate surrender or "face the full force of the Nigerian State," in a nationwide broadcast marking the 27th anniversary of unbroken civilian rule.

Speaking on Democracy Day, Tinubu framed the demand as part of a wider defence of Nigeria's hard-won democracy and national security. "To bandits, kidnappers, and sponsors of terror: Surrender or face the full force of the Nigerian State," he declared. "These windows of surrender will not remain open forever. No mercy will be shown to those who trade in the blood of Nigerians."

The President said the government remains ready to do more to secure the people, noting that "democracy without security is a mirage." He explained that the administration had declared a security emergency and approved the recruitment of more than 50,000 new police officers and thousands of military recruits. The 2026 budget, he said, commits N5.41 trillion, "our largest ever" to defence and security.

Tinubu highlighted recent operations against violent extremists, including joint operations with the United States and France. "In Arege, Borno State, we degraded ISWAP's command centre," he said. He added that "terror-related deaths are down by 81% since 2015" and that "over 13,000 terrorists have been neutralised in the past year."

He reiterated that the government also keeps the door of surrender open, noting that "over 124,000 fighters and dependents have laid down their arms since 2023 through Operation Safe Corridor." He acknowledged that the "mood of the year is dampened by the abduction of our children in Oyo and Borno," but said the country remains hopeful for their safe return.

Tinubu also announced national awards for 51 eminent Nigerians, including media icons, pro-democracy activists, and retired military officers who fought against military dictatorship during the historic June 12 struggle.