“Sons and Daughters of Hausa Land” Back IBB’s Call for Decisive Action Against Bandits, Sympathizers

Nigeria— A group identifying itself as the “Sons and Daughters of Hausa Land” has issued a rejoinder expressing solidarity with former military President, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, IBB, over his recent remarks urging President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to take a firm stance against banditry and those perceived to be sympathizing with criminals.

In a statement circulated on Saturday, the group praised IBB’s comments in which he reportedly called for a “ruthless, uncompromising, and decisive” approach to Fulani-led bandits and their supporters. The group quoted IBB as saying: “No bandits, no terrorists, no terrorists negotiators or terrorists sympathizers should be spared for disrupting the peace of Nigerians,” and “If I were the President, I would NEVER negotiate with bandits and kidnappers.”

The statement highlighted IBB’s criticism of negotiation and ransom payments, which he described as funding “enemies against your own citizens.” The group said IBB’s position aligns with long-standing demands from victims of attacks in northern Nigeria for stronger security action.

The rejoinder also referenced Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, a prominent Islamic cleric who has engaged in dialogue with bandits in the past. Quoting IBB’s remark that “Those who sympathize with bandits or pose as bandits’ negotiators must face the law,” the group called for investigation of individuals involved in negotiations with criminals. It listed allegations against Gumi, including defending bandits and blaming government, noting these reflect concerns the group said victims have raised over the years. 

On the origin of banditry, the group cited IBB’s statement that “Nigeria must take action against those enabling and protecting bandits within,” to counter claims that bandits are foreign nationals. The group asserted that known bandit commanders are Nigerians and that sympathizers and protectors operate within the country.

The group further said IBB’s military doctrine “We can go band for band… We are NOT negotiating!” is what affected communities have been advocating. It argued that negotiation with kidnappers, rapists, arsonists, and terrorists only encourages further violence.

In its conclusion, the “Sons and Daughters of Hausa Land” said IBB’s intervention gives President Tinubu “political cover to act decisively.” They urged the president to arrest bandits, negotiators, and sympathizers; dismantle supply chains; and end what they called a “culture of appeasement.” The statement ended with the slogan: “Peace has no price. Terror has no tribe. Nigeria has bled enough.”

It was signed “Sons and Daughters of Hausa Land, via: Hausa Activism Network” and tagged #hausaactivist.

Neither General IBB, President Tinubu, Sheikh Gumi, nor the presidency had issued official responses to the group’s rejoinder as of the time of filing this report. Security agencies continue to maintain that operations against banditry and terrorism are ongoing across affected states in line with constitutional mandates.

Note: The allegations and quotes attributed to individuals in the group’s statement reflect the group’s position. They do not represent verified facts or the position of this publication.