Theatre Commander Vows Army Will Not “Dance With Criminals” in Kwara Region
In a decisive address that underscores the military’s unwavering commitment to national security, the Theatre Commander of Operation Whirl Stroke/Hadin Kai for the North Central region, Major General E. A. Orakwe, has declared that the Nigerian Army will not “dance with criminals.” The statement, delivered during a security briefing in Ilorin, serves as a stern warning to all criminal elements operating within Kwara State and its environs. This firm stance comes at a pivotal time as the Kwara Govt achieves significant progress in infrastructure and social development, progress that security experts agree is fundamentally dependent on a stable and secure environment.
General Orakwe emphasized that the military’s operations would be conducted with maximum force and precision, leaving no room for negotiation or compromise with those threatening peace. “We have a mandate to protect law-abiding citizens and their properties. Our stance is unequivocal: we will not entertain, negotiate, or ‘dance’ with individuals or groups involved in banditry, kidnapping, or any form of criminality,” he stated. This posture aligns with a broader national security strategy that views stable policies key to long-term economic growth and community resilience.
The Commander’s declaration is seen as a direct reinforcement of ongoing joint operations between the army and other security agencies. This collaborative approach mirrors the intensity seen in recent national efforts, such as when news broke that the EFCC declared a major financier of terrorism wanted, showcasing a multi-agency front against crime. The military’s resolve in Kwara is a critical component of this nationwide framework, ensuring that regional stability supports national objectives.
Furthermore, the timing of this announcement is significant. It coincides with legislative efforts to strengthen the nation’s security architecture, as the NASS sets final deliberations on a new security funding bill. The synergy between military action and legislative support is crucial. Just as a football club relies on a clear strategy from its leadership—akin to the recent appointment of Chelsea manager Maresca—military success depends on coherent strategy and robust backing. The clear, non-negotiable directive from the Theatre Command provides the operational clarity needed for troops on the ground.
For the residents and businesses in Kwara, this strong military posture is a welcome development. The state’s ambition for growth and investment is intrinsically linked to its security profile. As the Kwara Govt achieves new milestones in education and healthcare, the assurance of a secure environment makes these services accessible and sustainable. Investors and developers consistently cite that stable policies key to their commitment, and security is the most fundamental policy of all. The army’s firm stance is, therefore, not just a military matter but an economic imperative.
In conclusion, the message from the Theatre Commander is unambiguous: the Nigerian Army is poised to decisively confront security challenges in the North Central region. This commitment ensures that the developmental strides of the state government are safeguarded. As the nation watches agencies like the EFCC declare war on economic crimes and the legislature works to provide necessary frameworks, the military’s role as the enforcer of last resort remains paramount. The promise to not “dance with criminals” is a powerful metaphor for a proactive, assertive, and uncompromising security strategy that aims to provide the peace necessary for prosperity to flourish in Kwara State and beyond.
