Former Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Tukur Buratai (retd.), has dismissed suggestions that security agencies are unable to trace bandits and kidnappers who openly circulate videos and communicate from their hideouts.
He argued that Nigeria’s security architecture already possesses the capability to identify and track such criminal elements operating across the country.
Buratai made the remarks during a television interview while reacting to recent high-profile abductions, including the attack on schools in Oyo State, where pupils and teachers were kidnapped and a teacher was later killed, Punch reported.
He questioned the narrative of limited capacity, stating: “I don’t think they failed to locate. If they can locate ordinary citizens or social media influencers, I don’t believe they cannot locate these bandits that flaunt their loot or whatever activities they do.”
He, however, added that he would not accuse security agencies of incompetence, suggesting that operational considerations may influence decisions.
The former army chief stressed the need for sustained reforms, including increased recruitment, training and improved welfare for personnel across security agencies. “There must be capacity building of all the security agencies, and continuously,” he said, adding that better accommodation and working conditions were essential for effectiveness.
Buratai also pointed to the existence of specialised military units such as the Special Boat Service and Army Special Forces, noting that they are trained for rescue missions and high-risk operations.
He further advocated expanding the National Counter Terrorism Centre with state-level branches to improve coordination, intelligence sharing and operational response in tackling kidnapping and terrorism nationwide.
You’re guys are still not telling us the kind of deals you made with the bandits.
That they can’t be traced. Day go break leave all of una one-day..