•Musa and Gumi
The Minister of Defence, General Chris Musa, has sounded a note of warning to Islamic cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi and other people who are in support of bandits and terrorists to desist from it henceforth.
He made the statement in Maiduguri today, as he stated that a friend of a thief is also a thief, reports Daily Independent.
He said that the warning statement is neither accidental nor symbolic, explaining that it is a clear response to narratives previously promoted by Sheikh Gumi, who described bandits hiding in the bush as “our brothers” and argued that society cannot do without them.
General Musa’s message draws a firm line between compassion and complicity. While empathy has its place, justifying or normalising terrorism only strengthens criminal networks that have devastated communities, displaced families, and claimed innocent lives.
Labelling bandits as “brothers” does not reduce violence; it legitimises and undermines national security efforts.
The Defence Minister’s warning reminds Nigerians that terrorism thrives not only on weapons but also on moral cover.
“Anyone who excuses, defends, or shields criminals through words, influence, or silence shares responsibility for the consequences.
“In matters of national security, neutrality is not an option. Nigeria cannot defeat banditry and terrorism while dangerous rhetoric blurs the line between victims and perpetrators.
“The choice is clear: stand with the law and the nation, or be counted among those enabling crime,” he warned.
