President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria has issued a stern ultimatum to terrorists and bandits threatening the peace and security of Nigeria, urging them to surrender or face fatal consequences. The President emphasized that his administration has had enough of the criminal activities of bandits, terrorists, and other non-state actors.
Speaking at the inaugural international lecture organized by the News Agency of Nigeria in Abuja on Thursday, Tinubu, represented by the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, declared that both military and non-military strategies had been put in place to eliminate these criminal elements.
“The days of these criminal elements are numbered. Time is running out. If you want to live, stop this now. If not, you know what’s coming,” he warned. “For 15 years, we’ve endured their interference with our daily lives, commerce, education, and health systems. Enough is enough.”
The President emphasized that while non-violent means of resolution are still open, those who refuse to lay down their arms would be dealt with decisively. “Windows are open, doors are open. If you’re ready to surrender and stop, do so. Otherwise, whoever you are, you know what’s coming,” Tinubu stated.
Tinubu also promised that the rampant kidnapping for ransom in the country would soon be eradicated, describing it as an “economic crime” that has replaced other forms of criminal activities. “Kidnapping has replaced armed robbery and housebreaking, but we will find these criminals. Just as we defeated armed robbery, we will defeat kidnappers,” he vowed.
Additionally, the President sent a warning to corrupt officials, cautioning that his administration would not tolerate corruption in any form. “Even those who corrupt others, be careful. It will come for you. It’s coming,” he said.
Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to lifting Nigerians out of poverty through job creation, infrastructure development, and the provision of social services. He urged Nigerians to be patient, assuring them that the positive impact of his policies would soon be evident.
The National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, echoed the President’s commitment, stating, “We’ve been working quietly, but we are on the right track. Nigeria is becoming stable, and we are restoring order. Give us time.”
This comes as the government continues to strengthen institutions, promote accountability, and pursue inclusive decision-making aimed at improving governance across the country.
