Troubling: Traditional, religious leaders aiding bandits evade security — CDS

CDS, Musa

Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has accused certain traditional rulers and religious leaders in the northern region of providing direct support to criminal groups responsible for persistent insecurity.

In an interview with News Central TV, General Musa outlined the challenges faced by the armed forces, noting that the military cannot be stationed in every community across the country.

“That’s the reality—we cannot be in all places at once,” he explained, emphasising the scale of insecurity and the limitations of manpower deployment.

According to Musa, intelligence reports and recent arrests have revealed troubling cases where local leaders collaborate with armed groups.

He alleged that some traditional and religious figures actively help bandits conceal weapons and evade detection. “We have discovered situations where traditional and religious leaders side with the bandits, hiding their arms. Many have been arrested,” he said.

The defence chief also described the tactics employed by bandits to bypass security operations. He noted that criminals often bury weapons before entering areas where searches are likely, allowing them to blend in with civilians. “If we don’t catch them with a weapon, they appear as ordinary civilians, and our rules of engagement stop us from acting,” Musa explained.

On the recurring clashes between farmers and herders, Musa pointed to the central role of livestock in Fulani culture and identity. He said cattle rustling or killings are often interpreted as direct attacks, leading to violent retaliation.

Beyond cultural factors, Musa warned that criminal networks on both sides exploit the situation for personal gain.

He highlighted how organised groups of young men from Fulani and indigenous communities cooperate in cattle rustling operations, worsening conflict and heightening insecurity.

The defence chief’s remarks underscore both the complexity of Nigeria’s security crisis and the urgent need for cooperation from local leaders rather than complicity with armed groups.