Bandits Attack — What Manner of Peace Deal? By Bishop Dr. Sanya Ojo SOMH

Nigeria is fast descending into a dangerous cycle where criminality is being normalized, rewarded, and unfortunately defended under the guise of “peace deals.” The kidnapping industry is thriving daily, and the posture of the government of the day continues to give credence to the controversial claims of Alhaji Gumi, who insists on negotiating with terrorists.

But let the truth be told:
No government should negotiate with bandits.
Not when these same bandits have killed senior military officers. Not when they collect heavy ransoms to buy more sophisticated weapons. Not when they openly mock the Nigerian state.

Recently, terrorists released a video ridiculing the Tinubu administration, boldly declaring that the Kebbi schoolgirls were not rescued, but rather freed after a peace deal. What manner of country is this?

As if that were not enough, the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC), Eruku in Kwara State, suffered a violent attack. Worshippers were abducted, and after five days, they were released—again after another peace deal. Instead of retreating, the criminals became emboldened, kidnapping a pregnant woman and a nursing mother shortly after enjoying the so-called peace.

Worse still, the Niger State Government declared Christmas holidays for all schools — shutting down education instead of confronting the menace. If schools are closed, the bandits may now turn their attention to markets, places of worship, and communities.

THE WAY FORWARD

Nigeria needs proactive leadership, not appeasement.
The United States has already pledged support in intelligence gathering and weapons supply—this is the moment for decisive action, not weak compromises that empower terrorists.

Government Must:

1. Smoke out bandits from their hideouts, not dine with them in negotiations.

2. Deploy superior intelligence and technology already offered by global partners.

3. Strengthen security presence in rural communities where these crimes thrive.

4. Dismantle the ransom economy that is enriching terrorists daily.

National Assembly Must Act Urgently

Our lawmakers must move a motion as a matter of national emergency to create a strong legislation that criminalizes negotiation, payment, or facilitation of ransom to terrorists. Enough of cosmetic actions. Enough of reactive measures. Enough of political silence.

Nigeria cannot continue to run a nation on peace deals with killers while innocent citizens live in fear.
A word is enough for the wise.

— Bishop Dr. Sanya Ojo SOMH
Seasoned journalist, media consultant,
Leader in the Vineyard & Host, VENO tv 08033340285