Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy, has explained why the Nigerian military was able to act quickly during the recent unrest in Benin Republic, while responses to internal security threats in Nigeria often take more time.
Speaking on the matter, Onanuga said the situation in Benin involved clear military targets, which made it easier for security forces to act fast. He said when the enemy’s location is known, it allows for a direct and focused response. But in Nigeria, he explained, the threats are more complicated.
He said that in Nigeria, bandits and terrorists often hide among civilians, making it harder for the military to strike without risking innocent lives. He added that these groups use people as shields, which means the military must be very careful when planning any operation.
Onanuga said these armed groups usually soft targets like villages, highways, and schools. Because of this, he said, quick military action is not always possible, as the safety of kidnapped people must come first.
He also explained that gathering intelligence in these cases is more difficult. Security forces must study movement patterns, track communication, and understand how the groups operate before taking action that avoids harming civilians.
He pointed out that the case in Benin was different because it involved a direct threat to a military base. The authorities there had clear information about the planned , which made it easier to respond in a coordinated way.
Onanuga said the Nigerian government is still working on better ways to deal with bandits and terrorists. He said the nature of the threats means the country needs to act with patience, careful planning, and a strong focus on protecting its people.
He said: “Look at the case of Benin Republic now. They wanted to a military base in Benin. They know where to where to go. They coordinated where they should actually , which is what they did.”
This article makes me wonder, could the governments response to crises depend on international relations rather than local issues? 🤔
I dont buy it! Nigeria responding faster to Benin crisis than local insecurity? Sounds fishy. What do you think?
I dont buy it! Nigerias response to the Benin crisis seems fishy. What about the ongoing local insecurity issues? Soing doesnt add up.
I find it hard to believe Nigeria responded faster to Benin crisis. Local insecurity needs urgent attention too!
Do you think the government prioritizing external crises over local insecurity is fair? Lets discuss.
I find it hard to believe that Nigeria responded faster to the Benin crisis than local insecurity. Can we trust this explanation from Bayo Onanuga?
I think the focus should be on addressing all crises equally, not just responding faster to one over another. Priorities matter.