Security agencies are fully aware of the identities and locations of the bandit groups responsible for recent mass kidnappings, including the attack on St. Mary's Catholic School, Papiri, in Niger State, according to Bayo Onanuga, Special Advisor to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy. Onanuga revealed the information on Monday in an interview with Prime Time on ARISE News. He claims that even while security personnel possess the required intelligence, their actions are frequently limited by the possibility of collateral damage to citizens who are being held captive by the bandits.
"Every bandit working on that axis is known to the security personnel. They are familiar with them. "They are aware of where they work," he remarked.
Onanuga emphasized that the government cannot just attack the designated enclaves with aircraft.
"Where they operate, our people reside. Therefore, you can't just go there. They must use extreme caution to avoid bombing innocent Nigerians while pursuing these criminals, he stated.
The presidential assistant brought up a previous instance in Borno State where civilians were inadvertently hit by the military.
"The military bombed the wrong individuals in Borno State a few years ago because they believed they had the correct satellite link. They have to steer clear of that type of error," he stated.
He continued by saying that because neither the school nor the Christian Association of Nigeria's Niger State branch had produced comprehensive records, there is still doubt on the precise number of kidnapped pupils.
The number of those who are truly missing is yet unknown to the authorities. You mentioned that pupils are absent; could you please provide their names? Tell us what you're searching for," he said.
Additionally, Onanuga stated that the school's principal had "disappeared," making the verification process more difficult.
"The security felt that their lack of cooperation was quite odd. "What is the agenda?" he inquired.
He went on to explain why, following kidnappings, security agents do not instantly raid bandit camps.
Sometimes the possibility of collateral harm keeps them from pursuing them. He claimed, "They kidnap our people and use them as a shield so they won't be attacked."
The bandits are aware of the repercussions of resisting government pressure, Onanuga continued.
He stated, "They understand that the government will launch a kinetic action and attack their base if they hold those people and refuse to release them."
Onanuga stated that the President's order to transfer officers from VIP protection to front-line responsibilities will greatly enhance security in high-risk regions.
"I read today that VIPs are protected by 100,000 police officers. It will be very beneficial if you distribute them to places that are susceptible.
Onanuga stressed that the administration acknowledges the gravity of the present security situation in response to criticism from religious leaders.
The fact that Nigerians are being slain has never been disputed by this government. We are working to make sure that we stop all of these issues, even though we are aware of our shortcomings," he stated.
The presidential aide revealed that after continuing security consultations, the president is expected to address the country shortly.
He stated, "I believe he will do so very soon."