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Ayo Omotayo, Director-General of the National Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies, has endorsed negotiating with bandits and terrorists if it means keeping Nigerians safe.
He said this in an interview with Arise News on Wednesday where he discussed Nigeria’s governance and security.
According to him, the government should explore all avenues to protect citizens and assets, stating that negotiating with those who kill Nigerians is “welcome, if it leads to safety”.
He emphasized that the primary responsibility of the government is to secure its people and assets, and if negotiation achieves this, it’s a welcome step
On whether it is a pragmatic approach for the federation to negotiate with armed groups, the researcher said:
READ ALSO: NIPSS DG, Omotayo, endorses negotiations with bandits, terrorists
“Government’s primary purpose is to secure its people and assets. A responsible government will explore all means to ensure protection. Negotiating with Gumi or other forces doesn’t mean weakness, it’s a welcome step if it leads to securing the people”, he said.
He maintained that security had improved and that, with proper support, forces can handle the recent attacks.
“While there has been a recent upsurge, we previously had some semblance of peace. Anyone perceptive knows where this resurgence is coming from. Our security forces will be on top of it with the necessary support. Negotiating with those who kill our people is acceptable if it leads to safety.”
However, not everyone agrees with this approach. Defence Minister Christopher Musa has warned against negotiating with bandits and terrorists, saying they only use dialogue as a deceptive tactic to regroup and launch fresh attacks.
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