The Defence Headquarters says the military not empowered to offer amnesty to bandits, contrary to recent reports.
Maj.-Gen Markus Kangye, Director of Defence Media Operations, clarified this Thursday during a media briefing at Abuja’s defence headquarters.
Reports recently suggested that several bandit commanders in Katsina State secured amnesty after releasing hostages and surrendering.
Kangye stated that while surrendering shows military progress, granting amnesty exceeds the military’s clearly defined operational jurisdiction and mandate.
He explained the military’s duties involve neutralizing threats, arresting suspects, and handing them over to appropriate government authorities.
According to Kangye, government agencies may consider amnesty, but the military not empowered to offer amnesty themselves.
He added, “We follow rules of engagement and operational directives strictly, without exceeding our constitutional responsibilities or assigned boundaries.”
When questioned about detained leaders from the Okuama attack, Brig.-Gen Tukur Gusau addressed the matter firmly and directly.
He said the military has not received any court order demanding the release of the detained community leaders.
Gusau emphasized, “If a valid court injunction arrives, our legal department will evaluate and advise on compliance procedures.”
He added no official request has been submitted asking for community members to visit detained Okuama leaders.
“This matter appears only in newspapers. Nothing official has reached Defence Headquarters through correct procedural channels,” Gusau insisted.
The military not empowered to offer amnesty to criminals, especially amid Nigeria’s ongoing security and terrorism challenges.
Analysts say the firm military stance shows efforts to maintain law, order, and discipline amid rising insecurity concerns.
Meta Description: The Defence Headquarters affirms that the military not empowered to offer amnesty to bandits, clarifying operational responsibilities.
