The Nigerian military is proposing life imprisonment or the death penalty for any personnel found guilty of supplying arms or ammunition to bandits or terrorists, in a bid to curb internal sabotage and strengthen national security.
Major General Ibikunle Ajose, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division of the Nigerian Army and Commander of Sector Operation Hadarin Daji (Fansan Yamma), made the disclosure on Tuesday while receiving Defence Correspondents in Sokoto.
The visit was part of an initiative by the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) to expose journalists to military operations at the frontlines.
Responding to growing allegations that some soldiers may be collaborating with terrorist elements, Ajose said the military leadership is taking a firm stance against internal betrayal.
“Any personnel caught supplying or leasing weapons to criminal elements will face the harshest punishment—life imprisonment or even the death penalty,” he warned.
He also addressed concerns about the misuse of social media by soldiers in operational zones, describing such actions as clear violations of military protocol.
“Soldiers are required to adhere strictly to our social media policy. Any breach of this will result in sanctions, including dismissal from service,” he stated.
Maj. Gen. Ajose called on the media to support military efforts by reporting verified information and avoiding the spread of misinformation that could endanger operations or morale.
When asked about the threat of drone technology in the hands of terrorists, Ajose clarified that there have been no drone attacks in the northwest region. He confirmed that one surveillance drone previously deployed by bandits was swiftly shot down by troops.
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“We have the capacity and technology to counter such threats, and our personnel are trained to neutralize them,” he said.
Ajose highlighted the military’s recent success against the Lakurawa terror group, particularly in Sokoto and Kebbi states, where several of their camps were dismantled. Despite the group’s mobility and cross-border operations with Niger Republic, the military has intensified coordination with Nigerien forces to ensure they are not given room to regroup.
“We’ve made significant gains, but at a cost—some of our soldiers have made the ultimate sacrifice, and others were gruesomely killed in the line of duty,” he revealed.
The GOC emphasized the importance of winning the trust of residents in border communities to sustain intelligence gathering and ensure long-term stability. While progress has been made in areas with consistent military presence, he noted that communities without basic infrastructure and government presence remain vulnerable.
“We need state governments to step in by providing essential services to these areas. This will help us win the people’s trust and enhance our operations,” he said.
Maj. Gen. Ajose also shared a recent success from a non-kinetic approach in Katsina State, where community engagements led to the unconditional release of 100 kidnapped victims.
“Our dialogue with Fulani and Hausa communities encouraged abductors to release the victims voluntarily. Some bandits have also expressed interest in surrendering,” he added.
He concluded by reiterating the military’s commitment to restoring peace and security in the region, while urging continued public cooperation and support.
