Ex-Niger Gov Aliyu Seeks Death Penalty For Killers Of Security Agents

Former Niger State governor, Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu said anyone or group of persons who takes the life of a security personnel should be put to death.

Aliyu said such measure would encourage security personnel.

The former governor stressed that patriotism must be taken to the highest level, adding that to protect the security personnel, Nigeria must formulate a policy that stipulates death penalty for anyone who kills uniform personnel.

Aliyu stated this at the National Institute of Security Studies (NISS) in Abuja during graduation ceremony for members of Executive Intelligence Management Course (EIMC), 17.

NISS is an institution owned by Department of State Services (DSS).

The two-time governor, who made reference to the death of over 30 soldiers in Niger State in 2023, wondered why anyone would threaten and kill personnel while on duty and still go free.

According to him, “I am happy that the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa is here. Although, they say the CDS or the military are not involved in issues of policies. But let me say this; I have not seen any country where about 38 soldiers would be killed and there will be deafening silence afterwards. I want to recommend that anybody that kills uniform person must die!

“When people talk of patriotism, patriotism is not taken in one eye. Patriotism comes as the result of a symbiotic relationship between the government and the government.

“In the government, if I realise that the government protects me, why would I not love my government? So suddenly you hear ‘daba, daba, here and there.’ No doubt about it.”

While speaking at the event, the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu said all those threatening Nigeria’s peace must be brought to book whether they’re in Nigeria or abroad.

The NSA, who represented President Bola Tinubu at the event, said those over 30 soldiers were killed due to operational accidents, and assured that the government is doing a lot to ensure every Nigerian sleep with their eyes closed.

Also speaking at the event, the Director-General of DSS, Adeola Ajayi assured that the nation will soon experience increased peace as all security agencies are working together under the leadership of the NSA.

According to him, “Together we can, we win. CDS and NSA have driven a synergy in a way I have never seen in my career. We need to work together. Our takeaway from here is that, no security challenges can defeat us if we work together.

“Very soon, all Nigerians will sleep with their two eyes closed. Thanks to the president for the direction he is taking the country. Thank you for appointing me. I will never let you down.”

Ninety-one participants comprising security agents from five foreign countries, including Chad, The Gambia, Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire and Rwanda graduated at the EIMC 17.

The graduation also had dignitaries in attendance including the ministers of FCT, Finance and Justice, Nyesom Wike, Wale Edun and Lateef Fagbemi.

Others include the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, other Service Chiefs and six former Director-General of DSS, among others.