The Nigerian Army is pushing for life imprisonment or the death penalty for any military personnel found guilty of selling or leasing weapons to terrorists and bandits. This tough stance was revealed by Major-General Ibikunle Ajose, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division, during a meeting with defence correspondents in Sokoto on Tuesday.
The GOC, who also leads the Sector Operation Fansan Yamma, made this known in response to rising concerns about internal sabotage within the armed forces and the misuse of social media by soldiers on the frontlines.
“In fact, the military is now proposing life imprisonment or death penalty for anyone caught aiding terrorists with arms or ammunition,” Maj.-Gen. Ajose said firmly.
He warned that soldiers caught violating military rules, especially concerning social media conduct or collaborating with enemies of the state, would be severely punished, including possible dismissal.
The visit of defence reporters to the frontlines in Sokoto was part of an initiative by the Defence Headquarters to provide journalists with a firsthand view of ongoing military operations in the region.
Speaking on drone threats, Maj.-Gen. Ajose assured the public that there have been no confirmed drone attacks by terrorists in the Northwest. He added that the army is prepared to handle such threats, revealing that troops once shot down a surveillance drone used by bandits.
He also shared updates on the military’s operations in Sokoto and Kebbi states, where they dismantled camps belonging to the notorious Lakurawa terror group. The group, known for moving between Nigeria and Niger Republic, has faced increased resistance due to joint efforts with Nigerien forces.
“Some soldiers paid the supreme price, and some were even decapitated,” the GOC said, acknowledging the high cost of the recent successes.
The army is also using non-violent strategies. Last month, through community engagement in Katsina, over 100 kidnapped persons were released unconditionally. The initiative is also encouraging some criminals to surrender.
However, the GOC stressed that support from state governments is crucial. He urged them to provide basic amenities to local communities, especially in areas where the military does not have a constant presence, to help win their trust and improve intelligence sharing.
“We can’t win this war alone,” he said.
