President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has issued a stern warning to criminal elements across Nigeria, declaring that they will find no safe haven as security forces intensify operations against banditry, kidnapping, and other forms of violent crime.
The warning follows the successful elimination of Ibrahim Bastuji (also known as Battijo or Bastijo), a feared bandit kingpin responsible for terrorising communities in Kogi State and neighbouring areas through kidnapping, violence, and attacks on innocent civilians. Nigerian troops, in a decisive operation, neutralised the bandit leader, dealing a significant blow to criminal networks operating in the region.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu commended the gallant men and women of the Nigerian Armed Forces, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Police Force, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps for their professionalism and determination.
“I congratulate our gallant troops on this decisive milestone. Nigeria will not surrender any part of its territory to criminals. Those who choose the path of violence against innocent citizens will find no hiding place,” President Tinubu said.
The operation not only resulted in the elimination of the bandit leader but also contributed to the rescue of kidnap victims, including efforts linked to operations in Kogi and Katsina States, restoring hope to affected families and communities.
President Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to equipping and supporting security agencies to confront and dismantle forces of evil. He urged criminals to abandon their illicit activities and embrace peace, warning that the full force of the law and the Nigerian state will continue to pursue them relentlessly.
This latest success underscores the ongoing efforts of the Tinubu administration to restore peace and security nationwide, particularly in areas previously plagued by banditry.