Governors could be next targets for bandits, buratai warns

Tukur Buratai , a former Chief of Army Staff, has warned that Nigeria’s worsening security situation could deteriorate further if urgent and decisive measures are not taken. He cautioned that political leaders, including ministers, senators, and governors, may soon become targets for bandits and insurgents.

Buratai issued the warning in a statement titled, “A frank and patriotic advice on Nigeria’s escalating security crisis,” following reports surrounding the abduction and killing of a senior military officer, Maj.-Gen. Rabe Abubakar. According to the former army chief, the killing of a senior military officer by non-state actors signals a dangerous escalation in the country’s security challenges and should serve as a wake-up call to authorities at all levels.

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“When a general falls into the hands of non-state actors, it signals a serious erosion of tactical deterrence,” Buratai warned. “If this trend continues unchecked, the next targets may not be soldiers or civilians alone. They could include ministers, senators, and even state governors.”

Target the financiers and criminal collaborators

The retired general stressed the need to target the financiers and collaborators who sustain criminal networks, including illegal miners, ransom negotiators, and local informants. “Bandits do not survive on weapons alone. They depend on support networks that must be identified, dismantled, and prosecuted,” he stated.

Buratai also challenged state governors to assume greater responsibility in addressing insecurity. He advocated for stronger support for state-level policing initiatives, vetted vigilante groups, and community intelligence systems integrated into broader security structures.

While calling for enhanced protection of public officials through improved intelligence sharing and counter-ambush measures, he insisted that the ultimate objective should be the dismantling of the criminal ecosystem fueling insecurity across the country.

Decisive action required to avert future tragedy

Describing himself as a patriot with no political motive, Buratai urged leaders to act decisively before the security crisis worsens. “If we do not radically change our approach today, the headlines of tomorrow may make today’s tragedy seem like only a warning,” he said.

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He added that while the abduction of senior political leaders is not inevitable, it could become a realistic threat if the country continues with what he described as “business as usual”.

Buratai concluded by calling on authorities to ensure that the death of Maj.-Gen. Abubakar becomes “the last preventable sacrifice” in Nigeria’s ongoing battle against insecurity.