Sokoto Governor’s Aide Urges Caution in Military Withdrawal from Internal Security Operations
By Fahad Faruk Galadanchi
The Sokoto State Governor’s Special Adviser on Security Matters, Col. Ahmed Abdul Usman rtd. has called on the Federal Government to ensure a well-coordinated transition before withdrawing military personnel from routine internal security operations.
Usman said although the decision to gradually disengage the military from internal security duties was a welcome development, it must be implemented cautiously to avoid exposing vulnerable communities to security threats.
He made the call in a statement issued in Sokoto on Saturday in reaction to the announcement by the Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa retd, that the military would gradually withdraw from internal security operations as the government works to strengthen the Nigeria Police Force.
He maintained that the military should primarily focus on protecting the nation’s territorial integrity and confronting major security challenges, particularly terrorism and banditry, while the police take charge of routine law enforcement and public order.
The security adviser warned that withdrawing troops without adequate preparations could create operational gaps, particularly in areas still grappling with terrorist attacks, banditry and other criminal activities.
“The withdrawal must be gradual and properly coordinated to avoid creating security gaps, especially in areas facing serious threats from terrorists, bandits and other criminal elements” he said.
Usman further explained that the military should remain available to provide support whenever security challenges become overwhelming for the police and other law enforcement agencies.
He also underscored the need for enhanced inter-agency cooperation, urging the Armed Forces, police, Department of State Services (DSS) and other security organisations to strengthen intelligence sharing and coordinate their operations more effectively.
He called on the Federal Government to equip the police with adequate manpower, specialised training, modern operational equipment and improved intelligence capabilities to enable the force to effectively assume greater responsibility for internal security.
