Buhari to military: Be ruthless in fighting bandits

President Muhammadu Buhari, on Saturday, ordered troops to be “ruthless” in the battle against bandits, criminals and kidnappers in parts of the country.

He shortly before leaving for Abuja from Umaru Musa Yar’Adua International Airport, Katsina.

In a statement by Garba Shehu, Senior Special Assistant to the President (Media & Publicity), Buhari interacted with 1000 troops deployed to curb the activities of bandits and criminals in Zamfara and neighbouring states under Operations Sharan Daji and Diran Mikiya.

It said the unannounced visit was intended to appreciate the work of the Armed Forces for the tremendous results that are being achieved in securing this nation and its people.

According to the statement, during the interaction, the president applauded officers and men  of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) and the Army for the counter-offensive against bandits in Zamfara State and environs, assuring them of his full support  as ‘‘a worthy Commander-in-Chief.’’

He urged officers and men to keep up the good work in the results achieved in dealing with banditry, kidnapping and cattle rustling in the affected States, within the short period of the operation’s existence.

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The statement quoted him as saying: “Nigerians are looking up to you and us to secure the country. What is happening in the areas of operations are disgraceful. I’m very pleased with the way officers and men are firmly putting it down and I want you to be as ruthless as humanly possible. Nigerians deserve some peace.”

The President reminded the troops that when he was elected into office in 2015 he promised the nation security, an improved economy and a commitment to fight corruption.

“The country has to be secured to be managed… we have been doing our best and we depend a lot on you to do what is needed in the field. I do not want you to spare any cattle rustler, armed robber or any person who thinks he is above the law.

“I commend you for the job you have been doing so far and I assure you that I will continue to be a worthy Commander-in-Chief,” he said.