A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Joe Igbokwe, has sparked widespread debate after calling for a hardline approach against violent groups operating across Nigeria. In a post shared on Facebook, Igbokwe urged authorities to adopt a zero-tolerance stance toward insurgents and armed groups, insisting that those responsible for violence should face severe consequences.
According to him, Nigeria has suffered immense losses due to the activities of terrorist organizations and criminal groups. He specifically mentioned Boko Haram insurgents in the North-East and armed factions such as IPOB, ESN, UGM, and BDF in the South-East, describing them as major contributors to insecurity and instability in the country.
“I advise that we show no mercy to Boko Haram bandits and also no mercy to IPOB, UGM, ESN, and BDF killers in the South-East,” he wrote. “They do not deserve to live. They have decimated the population of Nigeria. Actions carry consequences.”
His remarks come amid ongoing security challenges across different regions of the country, with authorities continuing efforts to combat terrorism, banditry, and separatist-linked violence. The South-East in particular has witnessed attacks on security formations, government facilities, and civilians, often attributed to armed groups enforcing sit-at-home orders and other directives.
Igbokwe’s comments reflect a growing frustration among some political figures and citizens who believe stronger measures are needed to restore peace. However, such statements are also likely to generate mixed reactions, especially in a country where discussions around security often intersect with concerns about human rights, rule of law, and due process.
The federal government has, in recent years, intensified military operations against Boko Haram and bandit groups, while also designating certain organizations as terrorist entities. At the same time, there have been calls for dialogue and reconciliation in some quarters, particularly in addressing tensions in the South-East…Read_More…