Why Bandit Attacks are Increasing Across Nigeria – Army

The Nigerian Army has shed light on the unsettling rise in bandit attacks and killings across the country, linking the surge to political and financial interests that go beyond ordinary crime.

According to the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, the growing wave of insecurity is not just the work of armed groups seeking money but is also tied to political manoeuvring ahead of the 2027 general elections. 

Speaking in an interview on Thursday, Musa alleged that certain politicians are deliberately fuelling chaos in order to discredit the government.

“Criminals work together because they want to make money and destabilise communities,” he explained. “But there is also a political angle. Some individuals don’t want peace because when there is peace, the government is seen to be doing well. When there is no peace, the government is seen as failing.”

The Defence Chief questioned the logic of orchestrating violence for political gain, pointing out the contradiction of destroying the same communities politicians seek to govern. “Last year, we recorded one of the lowest figures of deaths in recent years. 

How come suddenly, everything has spiked this year? The election is approaching, and some people are pulling the strings. But how do you kill the people you want to lead? What is the gain in that?” he asked.

Beyond politics, Musa also highlighted the deeper issue of terrorism financing, which he said is being sustained both locally and through international networks. Nigerian intelligence agencies, alongside the Attorney-General of the Federation, have been tracking individuals suspected of bankrolling insurgent and bandit groups. 

He noted that arrests have already been made, and some high-profile cases, including suspects linked to the Owo church attack, are in court.

However, Musa lamented that legal hurdles often weaken the fight against terrorism. Evidence presented in court is sometimes dismissed, allowing suspects to escape justice. “Our laws are too weak when it comes to terrorism. 

When people realise they can easily beat the system, impunity grows,” he warned. To tackle this, he urged the creation of special courts dedicated to terrorism cases, stressing that justice must be swift and decisive.

The Defence Chief also drew attention to the financial strain of fighting insecurity, especially with global conflicts like the Russia-Ukraine war driving up the cost of military equipment. He gave an example of a precision weapon priced at $100,000 each, noting that Nigeria had to deploy them carefully due to their cost.

He revealed that recent drone strikes had successfully eliminated dozens of bandits, including those riding on motorcycles, showing the importance of technology in modern warfare.

To cut costs and strengthen Nigeria’s defence capabilities, Musa underscored the need for locally manufactured weapons and equipment. 

He commended the Defence Industrial Bill recently signed by President Bola Tinubu, which paves the way for local production of military hardware in partnership with global manufacturers.