₦airaland Forum

- Says terrorism, banditry do not represent regional, ethnic, or religious brotherhood.
Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (rtd), has warned Sheikh Ahmed Gumi and others sympathetic to terrorists and bandits to stop their subversive endeavour, saying, “a friend of a thief is a thief.” Musa cautioned against providing overt or covert support to criminal elements seeking to destabilise the country.

Speaking yesterday during an official visit to Maiduguri, the minister said those engaged in acts of terrorism and banditry did not represent any form of regional, ethnic, or religious brotherhood.

The warning came as as the Nigerian Army said it had taken a significant step towards strengthening its manpower development and national security framework with the construction of a new training depot at Amasiri-Edda, located within Afikpo and Edda local government areas of Ebonyi State.

Musa explained that his remarks were deliberate and purposeful, not merely symbolic. He stressed that Nigerians must refrain from supporting or justifying criminal activities in any form.

He said the warning directly responded to narratives previously advanced by Sheikh Gumi, who had referred to bandits hiding in forests as “our brothers” and suggested that society could not function without them.

Musa made a distinction between compassion and complicity, stating that while empathy for fellow citizens is important, excusing or normalizing terrorism only emboldens criminal networks. He said the criminal groups had ravaged communities, displaced thousands of families, and claimed countless innocent lives across the country.

He emphasized that portraying bandits as “brothers” neither reduced violence nor promoted peace; rather, it legitimized criminal behaviour and undermined ongoing national security efforts. The defence minister warned that terrorism did not thrive on weapons alone but also on moral and rhetorical cover

He stressed that individuals, who defended, excused, or shielded criminals—whether through words, influence, or silence—must recognize that they shared responsibility for the consequences of such actions.

Musa stated that Nigeria could not defeat terrorism and banditry while dangerous narratives blurred the line between victims and perpetrators. In matters of national security, he stated that neutrality was not an option, adding, “The choice is clear. Stand with the law and the nation, or be counted among those enabling criminality.”

Army Expands Training Capacity, Constructing Training Depot in Afikpo
Nigerian Army took a significant step towards strengthening manpower development and national security framework with the construction of a new training depot at Amasiri-Edda, in Afikpo and Edda local government areas of Ebonyi State.

The initiative formed part of the army’s broader effort to expand training capacity across the country in line with the directive of President Bola Tinubu, to reinforce Nigeria’s security architecture through inclusive and equitable military development.

In a statement by Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Apollonia Anele, the ground-breaking ceremony for the new facility held Tuesday, and it was performed by Governor of Ebonyi State, Dr Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru. Speaking at the event, Nwifuru expressed deep appreciation to Tinubu and Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant-General Waidi Shaibu, for approving the establishment of the training depot in Ebonyi State.

He described the project as a milestone that would not only enhance recruitment opportunities but also encourage greater participation of youths from Ebonyi State and the wider South-east region in the service of the nation through the Nigerian Army.

The governor further stated that the presence of the training depot would contribute positively to peace, security and socio-economic development within the state, while strengthening ties between the military and host communities.

Representing the COAS, General Officer Commanding 82 Division, Nigerian Army, and Commander, Joint Task Force South-East, Operation Udo Ka, Major-General Oluremi Fadairo, commended the host communities for their cooperation and support.

Fadairo explained that the establishment of the additional depot aligned with the president’s vision of ensuring fair distribution of military infrastructure and promoting inclusive national representation within the armed forces. He emphasized that the new depot would create expanded opportunities for youths in the South-east to enlist in the Nigerian Army and serve the country with pride.

In a related development, General Officer Commanding 6 Division, Nigerian Army, Major-General Emmanuel Emekah, reiterated the commitment of the army towards better living condition and other welfare packages for the soldiers.

‎The GOC made the assertion during the inauguration of 12 flats of Corporal Below Quarters refurbished by the Commander, 6 Military Intelligence Brigade (MIB), Brigadier-General, David Umaru, at the Port Harcourt Barracks, in Rivers State.

Emekah said the action conformed with the command philosophy of the COAS. He stated the COAS had consistently approved the provision of better accommodation for soldiers across divisions in the army, adding that commanders under him are toeing same path

Emekah, who is also Commander, Land Component of Operation Delta Safe, said the refurbished accommodation blocks would boost the morale of the soldiers and reflect in their service delivery to the nation.

Nigeria is Stabilizing Force in West Africa, Polish Envoy Tells Air Chief
Poland said Nigeria was a critical pillar of stability in West Africa, acknowledging the decisive role Nigeria has played in counter-insurgency operations and regional security initiatives.

The position was articulated by Polish Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Michał Cygan, during an official visit to Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, at the Nigerian Air Force Headquarters in Abuja.The development was disclosed in a statement by Director of Public Relations and Information, Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame.

The ambassador praised the professionalism, resilience, and operational effectiveness of the Nigerian Armed Forces, stating that Nigeria’s sustained security engagements and strategic leadership continue to make a significant contribution to peace and stability across the West African sub-region.

He expressed Poland’s interest in deepening bilateral defence relations with Nigeria through practical and mutually beneficial cooperation tailored to Nigeria’s security priorities. According to Cygan, Nigeria’s central role in regional security architecture underscores the importance of enhanced collaboration, particularly in areas that support counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency efforts.

Responding, Aneke emphasised the growing importance of strategic international partnerships in addressing contemporary and asymmetric security threats. He reaffirmed the Nigerian Air Force’s commitment to leveraging cooperation with friendly nations to strengthen operational effectiveness, improve capacity development, and promote intelligence and information sharing in support of national security objectives.

The CAS also reiterated the service’s readiness to engage in partnerships that delivered tangible outcomes, enhanced counter-insurgency capabilities, and contributed to both regional and global security.

Ochetoha K’Idoma Demands Decisive Military Action After Akpa Otobi Attack
The apex socio-cultural organisation of the Idoma Nation, Ochetoha K’Idoma, charged the federal government to take decisive military action following a deadly attack on Akpa Otobi community in Benue State, which claimed four, including a serving member of the Nigerian Armed Forces.

In a press statement, President-General of the group, Professor Yakubu A. Ochefu, and is Secretary-General, Dr Paul Edeh, condemned what they described as “a brutal and unprovoked attack” carried out in the early hours of January 13, 2026.

According to an emergency situation report issued by the Benue State Civil Protection Guards at the Benue South Headquarters, suspected armed herdsmen invaded Akpa Otobi and adjoining settlements, opening fire indiscriminately at a local provision shop while attempting to procure supplies for persons held captive in nearby forests.

Ochetoha K’Idoma said the circumstances surrounding the attack showed clearly that it was neither accidental nor spontaneous. The statement read, “It is evident that this was not a random criminal act but a deliberate and calculated operation carried out with full knowledge of the terrain, reflecting the growing boldness of armed groups operating within our homeland.”

According to the organisation, those killed included a former local government councillor known for grassroots leadership and community service, as well as a serving member of the Nigerian Armed Forces, who was on authorised leave at the time of the attack.

Ochetoha K’Idoma warned about the wider national implications of the killing of a serving soldier, which it said constituted a direct challenge to the authority, credibility, and sovereign responsibility of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

https://www.thisdaylive.com/2026/01/15/friend-of-a-thief-is-a-thief-musa-warns-gumi-others-sympathising-with-terrorists/ nlfpmod

General Musa will do the north and this nation good if he can contain all the charade of this shiekh Gumi of a terrorist. Meanwhile Donald Trump is still on his matter. Useless terrorist.

"...The criminal terrorist groups had ravaged communities, displaced thousands of families, and claimed countless innocent lives across the country. So excusing or normalizing terrorism only emboldens criminal networks.... " Well said General Musa.

EVERY breath that Gumi draws is an INDICTMENT against the Nigerian Government.

The man is a TERRORIST.

He should have been PERMANENTLY HANDLED a long time ago.

By now, Gumi should be in calabar prison, diagonal end of where Nnamdi Kanu is.
I see no reason for warning Gumi this time, only if the Minister of Defence is trying to tell us that Gumi is bigger than someone they can arrest

Gumi,
Bello Tunji,
Miyetti Allah Chairman Bodejo
Pantami
Malami
Muric

Christopher now doing the work of DSS........It is the work of DSS to warn and pick Gumi in a gestapo style not Gen Chris's


You see Gumi, Bello Tunji, Miyetti Allah Chairman Bodejo, Pantami, Malami..........General Christopher need warn them

That's a very good warning

CORRECT. NOT JUST A THIEF,;A TERRORIST,BLOOD SUCKER TOO

Absolutely

He's very correct

Tell that Gumi, he needs to hear it!!!!!


Because the guy to carry bandit and terrorist for heart

Gumi and that south-west ragtag MURIC Spokesman Akintola should be warned.

GOFRONT:
Christopher now doing the work of DSS........It is the work of DSS to warn and pick Gumi in a gestapo style not Gen Chris's

DSS or not, it's akin to Donald Trump's warning. You go collect if you put body, it's a direct shot .

Nigeria government is not serious about issues of insecurity, in a saner climes any one remotely say things that can benefit terrorists in any way no matter how much of relief or legitimacy it will appear to give to terrorists will be pick up and treated as a terrorist..this clown said he hates Christians that drinks alcohol ,which does not in anyway offend humanity or which consequences affects only the drunkard but loves terrorists who kill,steal and destroy lives and properties of citizens...is such a clown not a terrorist?

kingbee90:
Gumi and that south-west ragtag MURIC Spokesman Akintola should be warned.

Governor Seyi Makinde bn pocket Prof Akintola, dude just found his voice again 😅😂🤣🤷🏿.

Sometimes, you need to take the bull by the horn. And sometimes, you need to face the devil to conquer your adversaries.

Reverse this to supporters of a failed government

The first Nigerian official under the Tinubu's administration to give Gumi an audacious reply

Why will you romanticize terrorists

Aboki barawo barawo ni (A friend of a thief is a thief.................

My friend is a doctor, does that make me a doctor?

Terriost GUMI




time is





nearby

NinjaMetahuman:
My friend is a doctor, does that make me a doctor?

thieving is a behaviour that can be influenced to one another, a doctor is a profession.

Good NA is now growing balls, but no be to warn Gumi for public come go beg am for back o

doffman dofman Expanse2020

Shey una hear?

Great position from Musa .

If Gumi failed to backed down ,he should be taken down .

I warn you people to keep your madness in the north. Afikpo has recorded peace from the days of our forefathers and I hope the presence of that useless army depot will not usher in terrorism, civilians abuse and attract useless Fulani killers in the peaceful old town. I hope the army, FG and Ebonyi state government is aware that Afikpo forbids beef due to the clash between killer herdsmen. We don’t eat cow meat because we don’t want killer herdsmen in our land. It was banned due to the clash between Fulani herdsmen in the same Amasiri and Edda. We need steady light, other state and federal government projects and not death trap called army depots.
We love our peaceful town. FG should take it to Izzii or Uburu.

Thank you General Musa.
However I will forgive you that this warning is coming late , but is highly welcome.
In a country that works, Gumi will be in an underground cell, either awaiting trial or undergoing trial.

This is long overdue. If Gummi really love this country and he is sincere instead of using rhetoric to cover and strengthen these criminals,he should rather use his closeness to them to encourage them to lay down their arms and surrender themselves to the authority,then negotiate amnesty for them from the federal government.