President Bola Tinubu has warned criminals operating across Nigeria that they will find no refuge anywhere in the country, following the killing of a notorious bandit leader by Nigerian troops in Kogi State.
The President issued the warning on Tuesday while commending the Armed Forces and other security agencies for carrying out what he described as a major operation against criminal elements threatening the peace and security of Nigerians.
The operation led to the elimination of Ibrahim Bastuji, a feared bandit kingpin accused of masterminding several attacks, kidnappings and violent crimes in Kogi State and neighbouring areas.
In a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu described Bastuji’s death as a major setback for criminal networks that had terrorised communities for years.
He said the success of the operation demonstrated the renewed determination of security agencies to reclaim every part of the country from the grip of bandits and other violent groups.
“I congratulate our gallant troops on this decisive milestone. Nigeria will not surrender any part of its territory to criminals,” the President said.
“Those who choose the path of violence against innocent citizens will find no hiding place.
“This success reflects the renewed determination of our security forces to secure every inch of our land.”
The President noted that Bastuji’s activities had caused untold hardship for residents of Kogi State and neighbouring communities.
According to him, the bandit leader’s reign of terror was marked by repeated attacks on civilians, abductions for ransom and violent assaults that left many families traumatised.
He expressed optimism that the elimination of the notorious kingpin would restore confidence among residents and provide relief to communities that had lived under constant fear.
For years, Kogi State has served as a major transit route connecting Nigeria’s northern and southern regions. However, parts of the state have increasingly become vulnerable to attacks by armed groups exploiting forests and difficult terrain to launch operations.
Communities located around forested areas have repeatedly reported cases of kidnappings, armed robbery and attacks on travellers.
The President also used the opportunity to praise troops involved in another high-profile operation that led to the rescue of Hajiya Amina Abubakar, widow of the late former Chief of Defence Information, Major General Rabe Abubakar (retd.).
Hajiya Amina had reportedly been abducted by bandits in Katsina State alongside her husband.
The tragic incident attracted national attention after reports emerged that Major General Abubakar died while in captivity.
His death sparked widespread condemnation and renewed concerns over the increasing audacity of kidnappers across parts of the country.
President Tinubu described the rescue of Hajiya Amina as a source of relief to both her family and the nation.
He commended the officers and men who carried out the operation, saying their professionalism, courage and commitment deserved recognition.
“The safe return of Hajiya Amina Rabe Abubakar is a source of relief to her family and to all Nigerians,” the President stated.
“I commend the intelligence coordination and bravery of the officers and men who executed the rescue operation.
“We owe a debt of gratitude to our troops who risk their lives daily to keep us safe.”
The President assured Nigerians that his administration would continue to support the military and other security agencies in the fight against insecurity.
He said the government remained committed to providing the Armed Forces with the resources, equipment, training and operational support needed to tackle banditry, kidnapping and other forms of violent crime.
Tinubu stressed that defeating criminal groups requires sustained effort and close cooperation between security agencies and members of the public.
He therefore urged Nigerians to continue sharing timely and useful information with security authorities to aid intelligence gathering and prevent attacks.
According to him, citizens have an important role to play in supporting the country’s security architecture by reporting suspicious movements and activities in their communities.
The latest operations come at a time when Nigeria continues to face serious security challenges, particularly in the North-West and North-Central regions.
Banditry has evolved into one of the country’s most pressing security concerns, with armed groups targeting villages, highways, schools and farming communities.
Thousands of people have been displaced from their homes, while many families have lost loved ones or paid huge sums as ransom to secure the release of kidnapped relatives.
Successive military operations have recorded notable victories against criminal elements. However, security analysts say the persistence of attacks highlights the need for sustained pressure and improved intelligence coordination.
In recent months, the Federal Government has intensified efforts to degrade the operational capabilities of armed groups through coordinated military offensives involving the Army, Air Force and other security agencies.
These operations have resulted in the killing of several criminal leaders, the rescue of hostages and the destruction of bandits’ hideouts.
Despite these gains, many Nigerians continue to demand stronger measures to guarantee safety and restore normalcy in affected communities.
For residents of Kogi and Katsina states, the latest operations offer hope that security forces are making progress in confronting those responsible for violence and fear.
As the country battles multiple security threats, President Tinubu’s message was clear: there will be no safe haven for those who choose a life of crime and violence.
With continued support for security agencies and greater cooperation from citizens, the government believes Nigeria can overcome the challenge of banditry and build a safer future for all.