By Correspondent in Abuja.
President Ahmed Bola Tinubu.
The Democratic Front (TDF) has hailed the arrest of two most-wanted terrorist kingpins in a coordinated security operation executed under the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA).
In a statement jointly signed by its Chairman, Mallam Danjuma Muhammad, and Secretary, Chief Wale Adedayo, the group congratulated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on the successful capture of the two leaders of the Ansaru terrorist group.
“We acknowledge that insecurity has consumed enormous attention and resources since the beginning of this administration. However, we commend President Bola Tinubu for his relentless commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial integrity,” TDF stated.
The group noted that the counter-terrorism measures introduced by the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, since assuming office in June 2023, have continued to yield positive results.
According to TDF, the capture of Mahmud Muhammed Usman, leader of Nigeria’s Al-Qaida affiliate Jama’atul Muslimina fi-Biladis Sudan (Ansaru), and his deputy, Mahmud al-Nigeri, represents a significant milestone in the nation’s fight against terrorism.
“For us, this feat will help reduce terror attacks and de-escalate banditry and kidnappings, especially in Kwara and Niger States, where both groups have long terrorized communities in Kiama and Baruten,” the statement read.
TDF also commended the smooth inter-agency coordination under the NSA, which has led to the rescue of kidnap victims, the recovery of arms across the country, and the elimination of notorious terror groups, including Lakurawa in Kebbi State last year.
The group further highlighted the drastic reduction in kidnappings along the Abuja–Kaduna expressway, the decline of criminal activities in Jama’a Local Government of Kaduna State, and the capture of kidnapping kingpin Chiadiji Collins and his gang in Delta State as evidence of progress.
“We are elated that normal life has returned to many affected communities due to the inability of terrorist groups to continue their reign of terror against civilians and security operatives,” the group added.
TDF urged Nigerians to continue supporting the federal government’s efforts to eliminate security threats and consolidate the gains recorded so far.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
