Nigeria’s Defence Minister, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (rtd), has issued a stern warning to individuals he accused of supporting terrorism, declaring that anyone who aids terrorists will face consequences alongside them.
Speaking in a recent statement that circulated widely on social media, the Defence Minister said, “A friend of a thief is a thief. If you don’t stop supporting terrorists, once we go to the battlefield, whatever happens to the terrorists, you will surely have a share.”
The comment, shared by political commentator Deji Adesogan on X (formerly Twitter), sparked intense debate online, drawing both praise and sharp criticism from Nigerians frustrated by the country’s prolonged insecurity.
Some social media users applauded the minister’s tough tone, describing it as a departure from what they see as years of cautious language from security chiefs. A. Adebanji wrote, “I really believed in him, and it seems he has a magic wand. Since his appointment, there have been some changes, and we hope for more.”
Similarly, OmoOba Olukokun hailed the minister’s posture, saying, “First time seeing a defence minister being proactive and speaking out like a thunderstorm. God bless the people’s general.”
However, several commentators questioned why alleged terror sympathisers who frequently appear in the media have not been arrested. Eteobong Edem asked, “What stops him from arresting all those who are well known for speaking daily on BBC, national TV and social media platforms for the terrorists, bandits, and kidnappers?” He added that authorities should “stop the rhetoric and get on with proper work.”
Others accused the Defence Minister of selective enforcement. Uche Bakaadi wrote, “If Sheikh Gumi hasn’t been questioned yet, it means you will be selective about who will have a share. Please skip this hubris; none impressed.”
Jamilu Haruna also expressed disappointment, saying the minister had become more of a public speaker than an action-oriented commander. “He was a warrior at Theatre Command and suddenly became an orator as CDS, delivering fine speeches with little action. He should walk the talk,” he said.
Some contributors shifted the debate to policy solutions, with one user, Yeshir2001, arguing that financial reforms could weaken criminal networks. “Cash-for-ransom keeps the criminals in business. Cashless policy is the antidote,” he wrote.
The comments reflect deep public frustration over Nigeria’s security crisis, particularly the persistence of terrorism, banditry, and kidnapping despite years of military operations.
While General Musa’s warning has resonated with citizens seeking decisive leadership, many Nigerians insist that concrete arrests, prosecutions, and measurable results, rather than strong words, will ultimately determine the credibility of the government’s fight against terrorism.
