The Chief of Defence Operations, Major General Emeka Onumajuru, has dismissed claims that the Nigerian Armed Forces support financial payments to bandits terrorising communities across the country.
Speaking on Tuesday, Onumajuru said the military’s approach to insecurity is anchored on the national Disarmament, Demobilisation, and Reintegration programme, coordinated under Operation Safe Corridor in Gombe State and Zamfara State for the North-East and North-West regions, respectively.
“The essence of this national framework is for bandits who clearly want another route out of criminality. You surrender your weapons, and you are profiled in detail.
“Those found culpable face the law, while others who were forcibly conscripted or not directly involved in violent crimes are admitted into DDR centres for rehabilitation,” he explained.
Onumajuru stressed that the process is overseen by the Ministry of Justice to ensure accountability and prevent impunity, adding that rehabilitation efforts target individuals deemed redeemable after thorough screening.
His remarks came amid controversy sparked by former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, who accused the Federal Government of running what he called a “kiss-the-bandits policy.”
In an interview on Channels Television, El-Rufai alleged that the government had been paying monthly stipends and sending food to bandits in the name of non-kinetic engagement.
He argued that such incentives only embolden criminals and worsen insecurity.
But the Office of the National Security Adviser swiftly rejected the claims, describing them as “baseless and false.”
“At no time has the ONSA, or any arm of government under this administration, engaged in ransom payments or inducements to criminals.
“On the contrary, we have consistently warned Nigerians against paying ransom. El-Rufai’s allegations contradict verifiable facts on the ground,” ONSA’s spokesperson, Zakari Mijinyawa, said in a statement.
The military further urged communities to support border security efforts, stressing that collaboration between citizens and security agencies remains vital in curbing cross-border crimes and ensuring national safety.