By Palang Paul
Newly appointed Defence Minister, Gen. Christopher Musa (Rtd.), has directed Nigerian troops to “shoot on sight” when confronted by armed bandits, stating that soldiers must not wait for further orders before defending themselves or civilians.
Speaking during his Senate screening, Musa said troops deployed to conflict zones automatically have the mandate to neutralise armed criminals, especially in situations of imminent danger. He described any soldier who claims to be “waiting for orders” while under threat as “lying or being cowardly.”
Musa revealed plans to withdraw soldiers from routine checkpoints and redeploy them fully to active conflict zones, while the police and NSCDC take over checkpoint duties. The aim, he said, is to allow soldiers to “enter the bushes” and dismantle criminal hideouts.
He emphasised the urgency of restoring security so that farmers can return to their farms, warning that food insecurity could worsen if insecurity is not tackled decisively. Musa also condemned the rising killings across Nigeria, describing the perpetrators as “evil people on drugs” who exploit gaps in security coordination.
He vowed not to fail in his duties, saying he carries the expectations of the nation.
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