Bandits may be deploying human shields amid fears of foreign intervention – Gana
Former Minister of Information, Prof. Jerry Gana, has cautioned that the recent surge in mass kidnappings across northern Nigeria may be part of a calculated strategy by armed groups who fear possible international military action following recent remarks by U.S. President Donald Trump.
Speaking on Saturday at a reception in Abuja honouring the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, on his emergence as Chairman of the World Customs Organisation, Gana suggested that the pattern of abductions indicates the criminals may be seizing schoolchildren and villagers to shield themselves from anticipated aerial strikes.
His warning comes amid a fresh wave of mass kidnappings. In Kebbi State, 25 female students were abducted from Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School, Maga, while in Niger State, 315 pupils, students, and teachers were taken from St. Mary’s Private School, Papiri, in Agwara. Zamfara State has also recorded similar incidents.
Gana revealed that he received a call shortly before attending the event, hinting that bandits may be reacting to Trump’s recent criticism of killings in Nigeria and his declaration that the U.S. could intervene militarily if the situation worsened.
According to him, the locations of the latest attacks—mostly near forest corridors—suggest the abductors are seeking refuge in areas they consider safe should aerial operations intensify.
“It should trouble every elder and statesman to see young people being abducted across the country,” he said. “I was told that these bandits may be taking Trump’s threat seriously and are now gathering human shields. They know they are being targeted and fear being hit from the air.”
He urged security agencies to investigate the trend and called on the Federal Government to strengthen international cooperation and deploy advanced technology to counter the escalating threat.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, also addressed the gathering, noting that the kidnappings have drawn widespread global attention, with foreign media constantly demanding casualty updates. He emphasised that the government’s foremost priority is ensuring the safe return of all abductees.
Idris cautioned against spreading narratives that portray insecurity as a regional problem, insisting the issue affects multiple parts of the country. He added that despite ongoing security concerns, key economic indicators—such as GDP growth, inflation, and investor confidence—are beginning to show improvement.
“This is not the time to report Nigeria negatively abroad,” he said. “Let us work together to find solutions. The President is determined to end this issue.”
Minister of State for Finance, Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite, praised Adeniyi for his leadership and his election as Chairman of the World Customs Organisation, describing the achievement as a testament to Nigeria’s economic reforms and digital transformation agenda.
NIPR President, Dr. Ike Neliaku, lauded Adeniyi’s humility and dedication to service, noting that he repeatedly resisted public celebrations. He described the Customs chief as a model of professionalism who rose through the ranks through merit and commitment.
