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Banndit Intelligence Known: Presidential aide Bayo Onanuga says security agencies know the identities and hideouts of bandits behind recent mass abductions in Nigeria.
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Avoiding Civilian Casualties: Onanuga explains that military airstrikes are risky because hostages are often kept near bandits’ bases, making collateral damage likely.
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Government Actions: President Tinubu’s redeployment of VIP security personnel to frontline duties is expected to improve protection in high-risk areas, while full verification of abductees continues.
The Presidency has clarified why security agencies cannot immediately launch attacks on bandit groups responsible for recent mass kidnappings, including the St. Mary’s Catholic School attack in Papiri, Niger State.
Speaking on ARISE News’ Prime Time, Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said intelligence gathered by security operatives identifies both the bandits and their operational zones. However, acting directly is complicated because abducted victims are often kept close to these hideouts.
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“Our people are living around where they operate. So you can’t just go there. They need to be very careful that in the course of chasing these bandits, they don’t go and bomb innocent Nigerians,” Onanuga said.
He cited a past incident in Borno State, where civilians were mistakenly struck during a military operation, stressing that authorities are cautious to avoid repeating such errors.
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Onanuga also noted that uncertainty persists over the number of missing students because complete records have not been provided, and alleged lack of cooperation from local authorities has slowed verification efforts.
He explained that bandits often use abducted victims as shields, making kinetic responses highly risky. Nevertheless, he warned that the groups understand the consequences of refusing to release hostages, adding that military action remains an option if abductions continue.
Regarding security personnel, Onanuga highlighted President Tinubu’s directive to redeploy officers from VIP protection to frontline duties in vulnerable areas.
“If you share them out to vulnerable areas, that will make a lot of difference,” he said, noting that the government is fully aware of the security challenges and is taking active steps to protect citizens.
The presidential aide further disclosed that the President is expected to address the nation soon after ongoing consultations on security matters.
