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 Nigeria's Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (rtd), has issued a stern warning to state governments, urging them to steer clear of any peace negotiations or agreements with armed bandits.In a recent interview with BBC Hausa, the minister made it clear that the Federal Government remains firmly opposed to such deals, describing them as dangerous, counterproductive, and a serious threat to national security. 

He emphasized that bandits cannot be trusted to honor any agreement, pointing out that negotiations often serve only to embolden criminal groups, allow them to regroup, and ultimately prolong the violence plaguing many communities.General Musa stressed that the government's strategy relies on sustained military pressure, intelligence-led operations, and strong cooperation from local communities—not dialogue or concessions that could undermine ongoing efforts by security forces. 

He called on governors to fully align with this federal approach, warning that sub-national peace initiatives create confusion, weaken military operations, and demoralize personnel risking their lives daily.The remarks come amid rising public anger over reports of state-level initiatives, including alleged plans in places like Katsina State to release suspected bandits as part of so-called peace accords. Critics argue these moves compromise justice for victims and send the wrong signal to criminals.

The minister also appealed directly to ordinary Nigerians, urging them to cut off all support to bandits—whether providing food, money, shelter, or intelligence—describing such assistance as "blood money" that fuels further attacks and delays lasting stability.

General Musa reaffirmed the armed forces' determination to crush banditry through decisive action, technology, and regional partnerships, including recent successful operations like U.S.-supported airstrikes in Sokoto State that forced many bandits to flee across borders.

His message underscores a clear federal stance: true peace will come through strength and accountability, not compromise with those perpetrating terror across Nigeria's northwest and beyond.