The Defence Minister has sent a direct and unmistakable message to Sheikh Ahmad Gumi and to anyone still defending bandits under the disguise of brotherhood.

“A friend of a thief is a thief.” Those were the firm words of General Christopher Gwabin Musa (CG Musa), Nigeria’s Defence Minister, as he warned Nigerians against supporting terrorists in any form. This statement is neither accidental nor symbolic; it is a clear response to narratives previously promoted by Sheikh Gumi, who described bandits hiding in the bush as “our brothers” and argued that society cannot do without them.

General CG Musa’s message draws a firm line between compassion and complicity. While empathy has its place, justifying or normalizing terrorism only strengthens criminal networks that have devastated communities, displaced families, and claimed innocent lives. Labeling bandits as “brothers” does not reduce violence it legitimizes it and undermines national security efforts.

The Defence Minister’s warning reminds Nigerians that terrorism thrives not only on weapons but also on moral cover. Anyone who excuses, defends, or shields criminals through words, influence, or silence shares responsibility for the consequences. In matters of national security, neutrality is not an option.

Nigeria cannot defeat banditry and terrorism while dangerous rhetoric blurs the line between victims and perpetrators. The choice is clear: stand with the law and the nation, or be counted among those enabling crime.

#NationalSecurity #EndTerrorism #NoToBanditry #SecurityFirst #NigeriaMustBeSafe #ZeroToleranceForTerror #StopJustifyingCrime #AccountabilityMatters