Tinubu Calls for Treating Kidnappers as Terrorists Amid Rising Abductions

President Tinubu Urges Treatment of Kidnappers as Terrorists, Assures Judicial Reform

President Bola Tinubu has underscored the need to categorize individuals involved in reprehensible crimes such as kidnapping as terrorists. Speaking at a Ramadan dinner with members of the Federal Judiciary led by Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, President Tinubu emphasized the government’s determination to combat banditry and terrorism effectively. He condemned the cowardice of kidnappers who target vulnerable populations, such as children, and asserted that they must be treated as terrorists to eradicate their activities.

Addressing the gathering, President Tinubu reiterated his commitment to eliminating banditry and terrorism in Nigeria. He affirmed, “We must treat kidnappers as terrorists. They are cowardly. They have been degraded. They look for soft targets. They go to schools, kidnap children, and cause disaffection. We must treat them equally as terrorists in order to get rid of them, and I promise you we will get rid of them.” The President’s statement reflects the government’s firm stance against criminal elements undermining national security.

Nigeria has faced escalating security challenges, including terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and oil theft, particularly in the North-West and North-East geopolitical zones. Terrorist groups operating in these regions have perpetrated attacks, resulting in the loss of lives and widespread insecurity. Despite ongoing efforts to address these challenges, the prevalence of mass abductions, including the recent kidnapping of 137 schoolchildren from Kuriga in Kaduna State, underscores the urgent need for decisive action.

President Tinubu’s administration has consistently maintained its refusal to negotiate with bandits, emphasizing its commitment to safeguarding the lives and property of citizens. The government remains resolute in its determination to confront criminal elements and restore peace and stability across the country.

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In addition to addressing security concerns, President Tinubu pledged to implement necessary reforms to improve the welfare and working conditions of judicial officers. Recognizing the vital role of the judiciary in upholding the rule of law and dispensing justice, the President affirmed his administration’s support for enhancing the judiciary’s capacity and efficiency.

The President’s commitment to judicial reform was echoed by Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, who commended President Tinubu for his dedication to advancing judicial reforms and improving the welfare of judicial officers. Justice Ariwoola expressed gratitude for the opportunity to engage with the President and reiterated the judiciary’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and promoting justice.

Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, lauded President Tinubu for his decisive action in forwarding the executive bill titled “Judicial Office Holders, Salaries and Allowances, etc., Bill 2024” to the National Assembly. The bill aims to address the stagnant state of judges’ salaries and emoluments since 2007, reflecting the President’s commitment to enhancing the welfare of judicial officers.

In conclusion, President Tinubu’s declaration to treat kidnappers as terrorists underscores the government’s resolve to combat insecurity and restore peace and stability in Nigeria. His administration’s commitment to judicial reform reflects a concerted effort to strengthen the rule of law and uphold the principles of justice and accountability.