The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, has linked the recent spike in killings and violent attacks across Nigeria to political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections. Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Thursday, Musa warned that some actors may be fueling insecurity to discredit the government and destabilize communities.
Nigeria has recently seen an escalation in terrorist attacks in the North-East and frequent bandit raids in the North-West, while Benue and Plateau remain persistent flashpoints. On Monday, at least 34 worshippers were killed in a mosque attack in Unguwar Mantau, Malumfashi Local Government Area of Katsina State. Musa noted that the sudden surge in violence, compared to last year when security agencies recorded fewer deaths, points to politically motivated interference. “Some individuals don’t want peace because when there is peace, the government is seen to be doing well. When there is no peace, the government is seen to be failing,” he said.
The Defence Chief further disclosed that the government is closing in on terrorism financiers, stressing that arrests and prosecutions are already underway. He highlighted ongoing investigations by the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU), noting that some suspects involved in the deadly Owo church bombing are already facing trial. “Criminals, both bandits and terrorists, work together… but the question remains, how do you kill the people you want to govern? What do you gain from it?” Musa asked.