Amid escalating insecurity across the country, a prominent security expert, Amb. Abayomi Nurain Mumuni, has urged the Federal Government to immediately clamp down on individuals allegedly posing as negotiators for terrorists.
Gatekeepers News reports that Mumuni, in a statement issued on Thursday by his media aide, Rasheed Abubakar, condemned the rising number of self-appointed mediators who publicly associate with armed groups commonly labelled as “bandits.” He warned that such individuals may be exploiting public sympathy while indirectly strengthening the operations of terrorist elements.
According to him, involving these suspected sympathisers in peace talks is “not only counterproductive but also poses a significant threat to Nigeria’s socio-political stability.” He called on the government and citizens to stay vigilant and unite against emerging security challenges.
Mumuni identified financial incentives, political manipulation, social grievances and links to organised crime as key drivers of terrorism in the country. Tackling these issues, he said, requires strong political will and zero tolerance for any form of support for criminal groups.
He outlined five strategic steps the government must urgently adopt—including the arrest and prosecution of anyone acting as a false mediator, as well as a thorough investigation of their networks and affiliations. He also stressed the need to strengthen law enforcement capacity and improve public awareness, emphasising that well-trained security agencies and informed citizens are critical in combating terrorism effectively.
The security expert further called for enhanced collaboration among government institutions, civil society groups and international partners to build a coordinated and effective counterterrorism framework.
“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.
DSS Witness: Tukur Mamu Was Never Appointed as Negotiator
In a separate development, a Department of State Services (DSS) operative told the Federal High Court in Abuja on Wednesday that Tukur Mamu—standing trial for alleged terrorism financing—was never authorised by the Federal Government to negotiate with the terrorists who attacked the Abuja–Kaduna train in 2022.
Testifying under anonymity for security reasons, the witness said Mamu had “sidelined the Chief of Defence Staff Committee,” which had been officially tasked with negotiating the release of abducted passengers.
Led in evidence by DSS counsel David Kaswe, the operative stated that the defendant “was not mandated by the government to engage in any form of investigation or negotiation with terrorists, but acted on his own for his personal benefit.”
The witness alleged that Mamu encouraged terrorists to discuss ransom with victims, collected money on their behalf, confirmed payments, facilitated illegal transactions, benefited financially from negotiations, unlawfully possessed firearms, and even gave terrorists guidance on creating a website.
