Many Arms Used by Terrorists Belonged to FG, Says Ribadu”
Abuja, Nigeria – Former Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, has made a startling revelation that many arms used by terrorists in Nigeria originally belonged to the federal government.
Speaking at a security summit in Abuja on Thursday, Ribadu attributed the proliferation of small arms and light weapons in the country to the failure of governance and lack of accountability.
“The frightening situation is that many of the arms and ammunition being used by terrorists and other criminal elements were initially purchased by the federal government,” Ribadu said.
He emphasized that the porous nature of Nigeria’s borders and the lack of effective regulation have contributed to the widespread availability of illicit arms.
“We have a situation where arms meant for our security agencies end up in the hands of terrorists and criminals. This is a clear indication of systemic failure and corruption,” Ribadu stated.
Ribadu’s assertion echoes concerns raised by security experts about the need for greater transparency and accountability in the management of arms and ammunition in Nigeria.
According to security analyst, Dr. Ona Ekhomu, “The fact that arms meant for our security agencies are ending up in the hands of terrorists is a national security emergency that requires urgent attention.”
Ekhomu called for an immediate probe into the allegations, stressing that “those found culpable should be brought to book to serve as a deterrent to others.”