Kidnappers Must Be Treated as Terrorists, Declares President Tinubu

In a resolute stance against escalating criminal activities, President Bola Tinubu has urged for individuals involved in heinous acts such as kidnapping to be treated as terrorists. The President made this declaration during a Ramadan dinner with members of the Federal judiciary, led by Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) Justice Olukayode Ariwoola.

Expressing unwavering determination to combat banditry, President Tinubu labeled kidnappers as cowardly individuals who prey on vulnerable targets rather than confronting the strength of the Nigerian Armed Forces. He emphasized the necessity of treating kidnappers on par with terrorists to effectively eradicate this menace.

Nigeria has been grappling with a surge in security challenges, including terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and oil theft, particularly in the North-West and North-East regions. The Tinubu administration has maintained a firm stance of non-negotiation with bandits, despite continued incidents of kidnapping-for-ransom, such as the recent abduction of 137 schoolchildren from Kuriga in Kaduna State.

The abduction of schoolchildren has become a recurring nightmare in Nigeria, with incidents in Chibok, Dapchi, Kankara, Kagara, and various other locations sparking global outrage. While some victims have been rescued, others remain in captivity, enduring untold hardships at the hands of their abductors.

President Tinubu also addressed the need for judicial reforms, acknowledging the vital role of the judiciary in upholding the rule of law. He pledged to continue implementing necessary reforms to improve the welfare and working conditions of judicial officers, recognizing their invaluable contribution to the nation.

Chief Justice Ariwoola commended President Tinubu for his commitment to judicial reforms and for prioritizing the welfare of judicial officers. He expressed optimism for the future under the administration’s leadership, highlighting recent achievements such as the appointment of a full complement of 21 justices to the Supreme Court.

The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, lauded President Tinubu’s efforts in forwarding the executive bill aimed at addressing the stagnant state of judges’ salaries and allowances since 2007. He commended the President’s compassion and determination in initiating decisive action to rectify this longstanding issue, underscoring the administration’s unwavering support for the judiciary.