Ethnicity plays no role in crime, we must avoid casting aspersions or making accusations — Tinubu

President Bola Tinubu has called on Nigerians to steer clear of ethnic profiling and finger-pointing in the battle against insecurity, emphasizing that crime is devoid of ethnic affiliation and that a united front is essential to vanquishing terrorism and lawlessness.

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In his address on Democracy Day, Tinubu discussed national security, revealing that Nigeria has notably enhanced its military capabilities, transitioning from collaborative training exercises with nations like the United States, France, and other European countries to precision-driven targeting of terrorist networks.

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The President announced that security forces had successfully dismantled the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) command structure in Arege, Borno State, as part of ongoing counter-terrorism efforts.

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According to Tinubu, the number of terror-related fatalities in the country has plummeted by 81 per cent since 2015, with over 13,000 terrorists neutralized in the past year alone.

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The President highlighted significant strides in the government's surrender and rehabilitation program, noting that more than 124,000 fighters and their dependents have laid down their arms since 2023 under Operation Safe Corridor.

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Despite these advancements, Tinubu cautioned that the Federal Government's window for surrender remains open, but will not stay that way indefinitely, warning that those who refuse to surrender will face the full force of the Nigerian State.

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Tinubu issued a stern warning to bandits, kidnappers, and terror sponsors, stating that they must surrender or face the consequences, and that the opportunity to surrender will not be available forever, with no leniency shown to those who profit from the bloodshed of Nigerians.

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The President urged Nigerians to remain united and avoid divisions, stressing that criminality should not be linked to any particular ethnic group, as he emphasized that crime is not bound by ethnicity.

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Tinubu expressed confidence that the ongoing security operations, combined with national unity, will ultimately lead to the defeat of terrorism and the restoration of lasting peace across the country.

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The President reaffirmed his administration's commitment to building a safer and more prosperous nation, stating that Nigeria will continue to bolster its security architecture while pursuing peace-building and reintegration efforts for repentant fighters.