Sit-at-home’ losing grip as security improves in south-east – NSA Ribadu
The National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, has declared that the enforced ‘sit-at-home’ order by separatist groups in Nigeria’s South-East region is rapidly losing its hold, as security conditions continue to improve under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
Ribadu made the statement on Thursday at the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Summit in Abuja, where the Federal Government presented its two-year performance scorecard.
He attributed the change to the arrest or elimination of several high-ranking members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), which has weakened the separatist agenda.
“The ‘sit-at-home’ orders are becoming more and more ineffective,” Ribadu stated, noting that attacks on security personnel in the region have significantly reduced. He also revealed that more than 50 police stations and posts have been rebuilt, enabling the return of normal social and economic activities in affected communities.
Turning attention to the North-West, Ribadu described the past year as a major turning point in the battle against banditry, revealing that over 11,250 hostages have been rescued since President Tinubu assumed office.
He listed notorious bandit leaders such as Ali Kachalla, Boderi, Halilu Sububu, Dangote, Isuhu Yellow, and Damuna among those neutralised in targeted operations. According to him, more than 50 top warlords, 70 deputy commanders, and hundreds of foot soldiers have been eliminated.
In addition, Ribadu said over 35 bandit leaders have surrendered as part of the government’s non-kinetic peace strategy known as the ‘Kaduna Model’. He also announced the launch of Operation Safe Corridor North West to aid in the deradicalisation and reintegration of former combatants.
The NSA’s remarks come amid renewed efforts by the Federal Government to stabilise security in critical regions across the country.
