In a recent interview on Arise News Television, Colonel Hassan Stan-Labo (rtd), a Security Consultant and Defence Strategist, expressed his disappointment with the lack of significant progress in combating terrorism during former President Muhammadu Buhari’s eight-year tenure.
Stan-Labo claimed that the administration failed to take decisive action against ministers and governors allegedly linked to terrorists, allowing them to retain their positions, even those responsible for national data.
According to Stan-Labo, General Buhari’s leadership did little to advance the fight against terrorism and, if anything, exacerbated the challenges faced in addressing the issue. He criticized the administration for allowing individuals with suspected ties to terrorism to hold key positions, including one who oversaw national data.
During the interview, Stan-Labo highlighted the prevalence of religious, tribal, and ethnic considerations in the decision-making process during Buhari’s administration. He expressed concern about governors from the North having questionable relationships with terrorist groups, some even advocating for amnesty for purported repentant terrorists.
The retired colonel questioned the concept of granting repentance to individuals involved in violent activities against fellow Nigerians, emphasizing that the duty of soldiers is to ensure justice, not to offer repentance. Stan-Labo also drew attention to the discussions around amnesty, particularly in reference to past instances during President Yar’Adua’s administration.
Turning his attention to the current administration under President Bola Tinubu, Stan-Labo asserted that there has been little discernible change from the previous government’s approach to combating terrorism. He cautioned President Tinubu against heeding ill advice from individuals sympathetic to the Buhari administration, urging a sincere and resolute effort in the ongoing fight against terrorism in Nigeria.
In conclusion, the retired colonel emphasized the need for a vigilant and proactive approach, urging the new administration to break away from the perceived shortcomings of the past and take effective measures to address the persistent challenge of terrorism in the country.
