President Tinubu Issues Stern Warning to Criminal Groups: Surrender or Face Severe Consequences

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has issued a firm warning to bandits, terrorists, and other criminal organizations, urging them to surrender or face severe repercussions from the Nigerian government. Speaking during a lecture hosted by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja, the President declared, "Enough is enough," adding that the end of these criminal activities is near.

The warning, delivered on behalf of President Tinubu by National Security Adviser (NSA) Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, highlighted that Nigeria will no longer tolerate insecurity. The government, according to the President, is prepared to take whatever steps are necessary to restore peace.

While President Tinubu acknowledged the importance of non-kinetic approaches, he stressed that criminal groups must act swiftly. "Our windows are open, our doors are open if they are ready to come and surrender and stop; otherwise, they know what is going to happen to them," he declared.

The President further emphasized that the government has put in place social services, infrastructure development, and job creation programs to address the root causes of insecurity. He stated, “We have developed both kinetic and non-kinetic strategies in considerably eliminating the threats of Boko Haram, banditry, kidnapping for ransom, and violent extremists.”

President Tinubu, in his role as ECOWAS Chair, is also focusing on enhancing regional cooperation, sharing intelligence, and coordinating security efforts with neighboring countries to tackle security challenges in the Sahel.

He praised the Nigerian military forces for their renewed efforts against criminal elements in the Northeast and Northwest and expressed optimism over recent security gains. "Our citizens can now heave a sigh of relief. We shall continue to provide our armed forces with the needed human and material resources to achieve success," he stated.

In conclusion, President Tinubu referenced the removal of more than 300 Boko Haram leaders and the reduction in kidnapping for ransom incidents over the past year. He warned criminal leaders that if they refuse to surrender, they would face the same fate.