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A Nation Held Hostage: The Shameful Politics of Calling Terrorists ‘Our Brothers

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When Nigeria’s Leaders Call Terrorists “Peacemakers”: The Dangerous Normalisation of Banditry

By FEMI OYEWALE

In a country bleeding from years of insurgency, mass abductions, jihadist expansion, and rural terror, one would expect political leaders to speak with clarity, courage, and conviction. But in today’s Nigeria, many officeholders have chosen a dangerous path: romanticising terrorists, legitimising bandits, and publicly describing armed killers as “our brothers,” “misunderstood youths,” or even “commanders of peace.”
This is not just reckless rhetoric — it is a national tragedy unfolding in real time.
FROM BANDITS TO ‘STAKEHOLDERS’: THE NEW POLITICAL LANGUAGE OF APPEASEMENT
Over the past five years, Nigerians have witnessed a disturbing linguistic and political shift. Terms that should be unequivocal — terrorists, jihadists, criminal gangs, bandit militias — are quietly being replaced with softer, sanitised labels in official statements.
Suddenly, men who burn villages, abduct schoolchildren, rape women, ambush soldiers, and extort helpless communities are being presented as:
Repentant fighters
Peace ambassadors
Community partners
Aggrieved citizens
Negotiators
Commanders of peace
This rebranding is not accidental. It is politically convenient, financially motivated, and rooted in a mixture of fear, corruption, and shortsighted calculations.
THE COST OF NORMALISING VIOLENCE
Security experts warn that elevating militants to the status of “partners” has three devastating consequences:
1. Terrorists Gain Political Legitimacy
Armed groups suddenly become power brokers — issuing conditions, attending negotiations, and influencing local governance.
Crimes against humanity evaporate with a handshake and a press conference.
2. Citizens Lose Trust in the State
Families who lost loved ones to bandits watch in disbelief as politicians pose for photos with the same men who destroyed their communities.
This deepens resentment, erodes confidence, and fractures national unity.
3. Violence Becomes Profitable
Once bandits realise that killing, kidnapping, and terrorising civilians earn them government attention — and in some cases, financial incentives — they escalate attacks to strengthen their bargaining position.
THE POLITICIANS WHO COURT BANDITS
From northern lawmakers openly advocating amnesty for bandits, to state governors hosting “peace talks” with armed killers in luxury hotels, the message is unmistakable:
Crime pays.
Violence pays more.
Terrorism pays best.
For some political actors, bandits serve useful purposes:
Useful for controlling restive communities
Useful for influencing elections
Useful as bargaining chips with federal authorities
Useful for sustaining patronage networks that flourish in chaos
And so, the cycle is sustained — deliberately or otherwise.
THE HYPOCRISY: NIGERIA PAMPERS TERRORISTS BUT PUNISHES PROTESTERS
The double standard is glaring.
While bandits are called “brothers”, young Nigerians protesting peacefully for police reform are branded “troublemakers,” “instigators,” or “security threats.”
While terrorists who kill soldiers receive cash, accommodation, and reintegration packages, unemployed graduates who join peaceful demonstrations face arrests, court charges, or brutal crackdowns.
This contradiction exposes the moral erosion at the heart of governance.
A NATION REBRANDING ITS OWN ENEMIES
Nigeria remains one of the few nations where:
Terrorists are defended by politicians
Bandits receive state escorts
Jihadists attend negotiation tables
Militants are prioritised over their victims
Leaders publicly introduce criminals as “partners in peace”
It is a bleak reflection of a nation losing its moral compass — and its ability to clearly distinguish right from wrong.
THE REAL TRUTH: THERE CAN BE NO PEACE WITHOUT JUSTICE
Experts agree: appeasement does not stop terrorism — it strengthens it.
Countries that successfully defeated insurgencies did not do so by massaging the egos of killers. They relied on:
Strong political will
Professional, intelligence-driven operations
Community-based security networks
Economic development initiatives
Zero tolerance for armed groups
Until Nigeria returns to these principles, the crisis will continue to deepen.
NIGERIA MUST STOP HONOURING THOSE WHO DESTROY IT
Every time a leader calls a bandit a “commander of peace,” Nigeria loses a piece of its soul.
Every time a terrorist is rewarded instead of prosecuted, the nation’s moral foundation collapses further.
The truth is simple — and painful:
No country has ever achieved peace by flattering its executioners.
Nigeria must choose:
Stand with its citizens, or stand with their tormentors.
The nation’s future depends on this choice.


A Nation Held Hostage: The Shameful Politics of Calling Terrorists ‘Our Brothers

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Ajadi, Peter Obi, Adeleke, Others Join Makinde at Oyo@50 Thanksgiving Service

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Ajadi, Peter Obi, Adeleke, Others Join Makinde at Oyo@50 Thanksgiving Service

 

The leading gubernatorial aspirant of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo State, Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, on Sunday joined Governor Seyi Makinde, former Anambra State Governor and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr Peter Obi, the wife of the Osun State Governor, Chief (Mrs) Titilola Adeleke, and other eminent dignitaries at a Thanksgiving Service marking the seventh day of activities commemorating the 50th anniversary of Oyo State.

The service, held at the Cathedral of St. Peter’s, Aremo, Ibadan, drew a large congregation of worshippers, political leaders, traditional rulers, and stakeholders across the state and beyond, underscoring the significance of the golden jubilee celebration.

Speaking with journalists on the sidelines of the event, Ambassador Ajadi congratulated Governor Makinde, former Governor and Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, and other stakeholders for steering the state to its historic milestone, describing the anniversary as a moment for reflection, gratitude, and renewed commitment to progress.
Oyo State at 50 is not just a celebration of years; it is a celebration of the strength, resilience and enduring spirit of our people,” Ajadi said. “I congratulate His Excellency, Engineer Seyi Makinde, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja and all stakeholders for sustaining the legacy of excellence, unity and progress that the Pacesetter State represents.”
He praised the people of the state for their resilience over the decades. He acknowledged the collective efforts of past and present leaders who have contributed to Oyo State’s political stability, economic growth and rich cultural heritage since its creation in 1976.
Ajadi, an entrepreneur and philanthropist, noted that the golden jubilee provides an opportunity for both leaders and citizens to critically assess the journey so far and recommit themselves to building a more inclusive and prosperous future.

“As we celebrate this golden anniversary, we must reflect on where we are coming from, where we are today and where we want to be,” he said. “Oyo State has produced great leaders, intellectuals, professionals and cultural icons.

He also commended the state government for designing a commemorative programme that blends intellectual engagement with the celebration of excellence, stressing that such initiatives help preserve history while inspiring younger generations.
Earlier, Governor Makinde, while addressing the congregation, said that although his tenure would end in May 2027, the team with which he has delivered good governance remains intact and prepared to continue the state’s development trajectory in different capacities.

The governor, who read the second Bible lesson from Matthew 5:1–12, attributed his emergence as governor in 2019 after eight years of political contest to divine grace, describing his administration as a “new beginning” for Oyo State.

“I was the eighth civilian governor of Oyo State, and in the Bible, the number eight signifies a new beginning,” Makinde said. “God has been merciful to us, and we will continue to govern in accordance with His will and guidance for the people of Oyo State.”

He assured residents of continuity in governance, emphasising that while he would exit office at the end of his tenure, members of his team would remain committed to serving the state.
“We have a team that is still intact. It is only Seyi Makinde that will go out; the members of the team are there to continue the work for the people of Oyo State,” he stated.

In a goodwill message, former Anambra State Governor and Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections, Mr Peter Obi, lauded Makinde’s leadership style and the transformation witnessed in the state under his administration.
Oyo State is a city of knowledge and a city of hope,” Obi said. “I thank Governor Makinde for faithfully serving the people. Nigeria is not a poor country, but a poorly governed one, and what we are seeing in Oyo State is an example of using public resources for public good.”

Dignitaries at the event included the wife of the governor, Her Excellency Engr Tamunominini Olufunke Makinde; wife of the Osun State Governor, Chief (Mrs) Titilola Adeleke; former First Lady of Oyo State, Chief (Mrs) Mutiat Ladoja; Chief Judge of Oyo State, Hon. Justice Iyabo Yerima; Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Musibau Babatunde; and several other government officials, traditional rulers and political leaders.

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UKA Announces Appointment of Hon AMB Asari St-Hill Bahamas/atlantian as Chief of Staff to Reigning Monarch Emperor Solomon Winning

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UKA Announces Appointment of Hon AMB Asari St-Hill Bahamas/atlantian as Chief of Staff to Reigning Monarch Emperor Solomon Winning

 

The United Kingdom of Atlantis (UKA) proudly announces the appointment of *Honorable Ambassador Asari St-Hill, A Bahamas/atlantian* as *Chief of Staff* to the Reigning Monarch, *Emperor Solomon Winning*. The official appointment ceremony was conducted on February 1st, 2026, and marked with the presentation of an Appointment Certificate (UKA 001 -1/2026).

Key Details of the Appointment
– *Hon AMB Asari St-Hill, A Bahamas/Atlantian* has been entrusted with the prestigious role of Chief of Staff, to serve the Reigning Monarch under the UKA GLOBAL ADMINISTRATOR TO UKA ROYAL THRONE of Emperor Solomon Winning, the sovereign of the United Kingdom of Atlantis.
– The appointment signifies a strategic enhancement of the monarch’s administrative and operational capabilities, aligning with the empire’s vision of efficient governance and global humanitarian leadership.
– The certificate of appointment bears the *Royal Seal of the Empire* and the endorsement of *EMP Noblis Solomon Winning*, affirming the legitimacy and authority of the designation.

Role of the Chief of Staff…👇

The Chief of Staff will be responsible for:
1. Managing the day-to-day operations of the monarch’s office.
.2. Act as Principal Aid to the Reigning Monarch and coordinates activities of staff.
3. Serves as one of the confidence to the Reigning Monarch.
4. Organised Reigning monarch appointment, meetings and engagement.
5. Review, vet documents, speaches, correspondence intended for The Reghning Monarch.
6. The Chief of Staff shall work and take instructions from the Global Administrator to the Throne in order to strengthen the entire administration of the Reigning Monarch in order to position UKA as the largest Empire in modern history.

Emperor Nobiliis Solomon Winning is the transformative leader of the United Kingdom of Atlantis, driving innovative projects in finance, humanitarian efforts, and global development. His reign focuses on merging traditional monarchical values with modern technological advancements, exemplified by initiatives like the ATC digital currency.

The United Kingdom of Atlantis (UKA) is a sovereign entity dedicated to fostering global unity, humanitarian progress, and financial innovation. It operates under a regal framework that blends imperial tradition with futuristic economic strategies, including asset-backed digital currencies and sustainable development programs.

_”The appointment of Hon AMB Asari St-Hill as Chief of Staff strengthens our administrative excellence and underscores our commitment to visionary leadership.”_
— *Emperor Solomon Winning*

The United Kingdom of Atlantis looks forward to achieving new milestones in governance and global impact under the stewardship of Emperor Solomon Winning and his esteemed Chief of Staff, Hon AMB Asari St-Hill.

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Gen CG Musa Support Group Celebrates Grand Patron as 2025 Man of the Year

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Gen CG Musa Support Group Celebrates Grand Patron as 2025 Man of the Year

Gen CG Musa Support Group Celebrates Grand Patron as 2025 Man of the Year

 

The Gen CG Musa Support Group has extended its warmest congratulations to its Grand Patron, His Excellency Gen. Christopher Gwabin Musa OFR (Rtd), the Honourable Minister of Defence, following his prestigious designation as the 2025 Man of the Year by OurNigeria News Magazine.

In a statement released to the press and signed by the Director General of the Support Group, Ibrahim Dahiru Danfulani, the Sadaukin Garkuwan Keffi/Betara Biu, the group hailed the recognition as a fitting tribute to a leader of exceptional character and accomplishment.

The statement illuminated the distinction of the award, emphasizing that it transcends the formal titles of “General” and “Minister.” It celebrated the core of the man himself—a leader renowned for his profound humility, incredible kindness, and genuine respect for all individuals. “People see the legacy and the title,” the statement noted, “but some of us are lucky to know the man behind it.”

The Support Group underscored that this accolade is a direct acknowledgment of the Minister’s exemplary personal conduct. It is an award not merely for the office he holds, but for the consistent humility he carries into every room and every interaction, a quality that has defined his leadership both in and out of uniform.

The honour also serves as a powerful validation of General Musa’s distinguished and unblemished track record of service to the nation. His decades of dedicated service within the military, which culminated in his ascension to the pinnacle as the Chief of Defence Staff prior to his retirement, are cited as the foundational pillars of his esteemed reputation.

The Gen CG Musa Support Group expressed profound gratitude to OurNigeria News Magazine for its discerning choice, noting that the award serves as a significant source of encouragement for the Honourable Minister. It reaffirms the nation’s appreciation for leadership that blends strength with compassion, strategic vision with unwavering integrity, and lofty achievement with grounded humanity.

Gen CG Musa Support Group Celebrates Grand Patron as 2025 Man of the Year

This recognition solidifies General Christopher Gwabin Musa’s status not only as a defender of the nation but as a paragon of virtuous leadership, whose influence and example continue to inspire confidence and respect across Nigeria.

About the Gen CG Musa Support Group:

The Gen CG Musa Support Group is a collective dedicated to promoting the ideals and supporting the leadership of His Excellency Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR and His Excellency Gen. Christopher Gwabin Musa, celebrating their service and contributions to national peace, security, and unity.

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