By Adeola Badru

Amid Nigeria’s escalating security crisis, prominent security expert, Abayomi Nurain Mumuni, has urged the Federal Government to take swift and decisive action against individuals allegedly sympathising with terrorists under the pretext of negotiation.

While making the call in a statement issued yesterday through his media aide, Rasheed Abubakar, Mumuni condemned the increasing activities of self-styled negotiators who openly associate with terror groups commonly referred to as “bandits.”

According to him, such actors may not have the nation’s best interests at heart and could be manipulating public sentiment while emboldening criminal elements.

The security analyst warned that involving such sympathisers in any peace process is counterproductive and poses a significant threat to Nigeria’s socio-political stability.

He urged both the government and the citizenry to remain vigilant and adopt a united stance against evolving security threats.

Mumuni identified several factors driving terrorism in Nigeria, including financial motivations, political manipulation, social grievances, and links to organised crime.

He stressed that addressing these root causes requires firm government action and zero tolerance for any form of support for criminal groups.

Outlining a five-point strategy to tackle the menace, he called for the immediate arrest and prosecution of anyone posing as a mediator for terrorists, urging security agencies to investigate their networks and affiliations thoroughly.

Mumuni also emphasised the need to strengthen law enforcement capacity and enhance public awareness, noting that a well-trained security apparatus combined with an informed populace is vital to national security efforts.

The security expert further advocated stronger collaboration between government institutions, civil society organisations, and international partners to develop a cohesive and effective counterterrorism strategy.

While acknowledging that negotiations may sometimes be necessary, he insisted they must involve only credible stakeholders and be conducted transparently, free of terror sympathisers.

“The time for action is now. Nigerians deserve a safe and secure country. The government must demonstrate the will to confront terrorism by addressing both the criminals and their apologists. Only through decisive and sincere action can we build a safer future,” he stated.