IBB
Nigeria’s former Military President, Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, has advised the Federal Government against accepting any plea for surrender from bandits operating across the country.
In a statement posted on his official X handle on Thursday, Babangida emphasised the importance of decisively dealing with all bandits before considering any form of engagement.
“While the bandits are pleading for surrender, we must not accept their plea until every one of them is neutralized and eliminated,” IBB stated.
The former head of state stated that after the elimination of the bandits, the military should invite negotiators and sympathisers, including Sheikh Gumi and other subordinates, for comprehensive questioning.
Babangida’s comments have sparked off several reactions from netizens, with many social media users expressing mixed opinions on his position.
One user, identified as Dr. Jay, supported the stance, writing: “Exactly sir. By now, Gumi should have been sympathizing with them in the lower chamber of Military Cantonment”, adding that “Nigerians only have temporary brains. After all the hate Nigerians have for Gumi, if Gumi comes out today and says something captivating, Nigerians will like it and start supporting him.”
Another user, Ikechukwu, echoed the sentiment, stating: “It is very important that this idea be implemented to the last letter.”
Ex-President Babangida’s comments come amid ongoing national debates regarding the best strategies to address insecurity and banditry in various parts of Nigeria.
As the nation grapples with these pressing issues, Babangida’s call for a firm stance against banditry continued to resonate within the public discourse.