Bola Bakare Advocates for Funding Veterans Instead of Paying Bandits

Bola Bakare, a leading figure in the All Progressives Congress (APC), has called for Nigeria to prioritize funding for retired military personnel over ransom payments made to bandits, labeling the latter as detrimental to national security.

In a conversation featured on Arise News, Bakare expressed support for the Federal Government's initiative to utilize retired military officers in efforts to curb insecurity in ungoverned regions, describing it as a judicious allocation of public resources.

He highlighted the significant investment that has already been made in training military personnel, many of whom retire with the capacity to contribute positively to security initiatives. Bakare argued that utilizing these veterans would be far more effective than negotiating with criminals.

"We would prefer to allocate funds to our veterans rather than provide financial incentives to bandits and terrorists in the form of ransom payments," Bakare stated.

He raised concerns about the rationale behind paying substantial amounts to kidnappers, warning that such ransom payments only serve to empower criminal entities while undermining the state's ability to maintain law and order.

"What is the better option? Paying a bandit, who is essentially a nobody, one hundred million naira, or investing that money in qualified individuals who can actually secure our nation?" he asked.

Bakare further pointed out that the current lack of fear among criminals is greatly fueled by the monetary gains associated with kidnapping, asserting that rechanneling resources toward trained personnel would help restore deterrence.

"The fear factor has diminished, an issue we must address," he said, noting that insecurity flourishes when crime becomes a more lucrative option than lawful employment.

Additionally, Bakare argued that deploying veterans to rural and unregulated areas would allow police forces to concentrate on urban centers and communities, thereby enhancing the overall coordination within the security apparatus.

"With a clear division of labor, there's a better chance for things to function effectively," Bakare remarked, emphasizing the practical benefits of employing retired soldiers to foster stability.

He reiterated that bolstering security with experienced personnel is crucial for rebuilding public trust and achieving enduring peace throughout Nigeria.