Shehu Sani cautions security agencies against premature celebration over terror war

Former Senator representing Kaduna Central, Shehu Sani, has warned Nigerian security agencies against claiming victory in the ongoing war against terrorism, saying recent developments do not yet justify such conclusions.

Sani, while commending the military, security and intelligence agencies for their efforts, stressed that terrorist groups remain deeply entrenched in several parts of the country beyond Sokoto State.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), the former lawmaker noted that the relatively peaceful Yuletide experienced in many parts of Nigeria was largely due to the sustained efforts of local security forces rather than the recent United States airstrikes.

According to him, “The efforts of our Nigerian defence, security and intelligence services ensured a relatively safe and peaceful Yuletide season in most parts of our country, and not the one-off US strike as boasted by US Rep Riley.

“It is too early to claim victory over terrorists who are more entrenched in places other than Sokoto.”

His comments followed recent airstrikes carried out by the United States in parts of Sokoto State, reportedly targeting terrorist groups such as ISIS-linked elements and the Lakurawa Islamic group.

The airstrikes, which took place on Christmas Day, were said to have been approved by US President Donald Trump in collaboration with Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

However, there have been conflicting reports regarding the effectiveness of the operation, with some claims suggesting that the missiles landed on unoccupied locations and failed to neutralise intended targets.

Sani has consistently maintained that while foreign military assistance may be helpful, Nigeria must rely primarily on its own security architecture to confront terrorism and insecurity across the country.