Nigeria’s security crisis is escalating to a point where high-ranking government officials may become prime targets of criminal gangs, according to former Chief of Army Staff Lt.-Gen. Tukur Buratai (retd.). He made this alarming statement in response to the recent killing of retired Major General Abubakar Rabe by bandits.
Buratai described the murder of a top military figure as a grave escalation, highlighting the increased audacity of these groups. He warned that without immediate intervention, the threat could expand beyond soldiers and ordinary citizens. “If this trajectory continues unchecked, the next victims might not be limited to military personnel or civilians. They could be ministers, senators, and even state governors. No leader will be safe,” he stressed.
The retired general emphasized that the incident should act as a stark wake-up call for the nation, as insecurity worsens despite repeated alerts from security analysts. He recalled his 2021 forecast that insurgency and banditry could persist for years without decisive action. “Today, we are witnessing the grim realization of that prediction. The abduction, torture, and subsequent killing of Major General Rabe Abubakar is not just a tragedy—it signifies a perilous new phase,” Buratai stated.
He noted that armed groups now operate with enhanced intelligence, superior weaponry, and growing self-assurance, posing a significant risk to national security. Buratai criticized the ongoing reliance on ransom payments and negotiations with criminals, advocating instead for a robust military response. “The current reactive approach—paying ransoms and negotiating with outlaws—must stop. It’s time for a full-scale, coordinated military and intelligence offensive,” he declared.
Additionally, Buratai proposed the establishment of a unified security command with direct authority over all security agencies in high-risk states to eliminate bureaucratic delays. He urged authorities to track down and prosecute individuals who aid criminal networks through illegal mining, ransom negotiations, and other forms of collaboration. “Bandits do not thrive solely on weapons. They depend on networks of corrupt intermediaries, illegal miners, ransom brokers, and local accomplices. These individuals must be identified, arrested, and prosecuted. The price of supporting terrorism should become unbearable,” he asserted.
Buratai concluded that only a unified national response can prevent further deterioration of the security situation and restore public confidence.